Evista (Raloxifene)

What is Evista?

Evista (raloxifene hydrochloride) belongs to a group of medications called Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs). SERMs have both estrogenic and anti-estrogen effects. Evista’s anti-estrogen effects include reducing the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, while its estrogen-like effects include strengthening of bones.

What is Evista used for?

Evista is used to prevent or treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Evista is also used to reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer.

Evista reduces the loss of bone tissue and helps in increasing the bone mineral density.

How does Evista work?

Evista works by binding to estrogen receptors in the breast, thereby preventing the estrogen hormone from binding. This way, Evista helps reduce the risk of developing breast cancer as breast cancers are sensitive to estrogen hormone.

How to use Evista

Evista can be taken at any time of the day. However, it is advisable to take the Evista dose at the same time each day. Evista can be taken with or without food.

Routine exercises and following a proper diet schedule can help in faster recovery.

Evista warnings and precautions

Do not take Evista if you are allergic to raloxifene, or you have a disease of the heart, liver or kidney. You should also avoid an Evista dose if you are suffering from high blood pressure.

Evista should not be taken by females who have not gone through menopause or by those who have had breast cancer. Pregnant and Lactating women should avoid using Evista as it may cause some serious birth defects in the child. Avoid sitting in the same position for long periods of time while you are on Evista medication.

Do not take Evista if you have had strokes in the past.

What do I do if I have missed a Evista dose?

If you have missed your Evista dose you should take the missed Evista dose as soon as you remember but not immediately before your next scheduled dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Evista overdose?

If you have taken an Evista overdose you should seek medical attention.

Evista interactions

Before starting with the Evista medication, consult your doctor if you use medicines like cholestyramine (Questran, Prevalite), diazepam (Valium), blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin), diazoxide (Proglycem), or some birth control pills. Also do the same if you are undergoing hormone replacement therapy.

Do not start using any other new medicine, while you are on Evista medication, without consulting your doctor.

Evista side effects

Hot flashes; headache; pain in stomach, legs or joint; dizziness; vomiting and nausea are some minor side effects of Evista.

Some serious side effects of Evista include sudden headache, problems with vision, speech, or balance; swelling of hands or feet, sore throat, sudden cough, body ache, fever, fast heart rate, wheezing, unusual vaginal bleeding, breast pain or tenderness, severe backache, and burning sensation while urinating.