If you maintain your bones strong by slowing bone loss the risk of fractures is reduced. Evista is different from hormones (including estrogens and progestin). In some parts of the body it acts as estrogen (as a selective estrogen receptor modulator or SERM). Bone mass is preserved by the help of Evista, but it does not influence the breast and uterus like estrogen or relieve symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes. If you are woman, you shouldn’t use this drug before menopause. It isn’t also recommended to children.
Here are the rules of usage of Evista:
- Evista may be taken with or without food, or as prescribed by your doctor.
- Raloxifene must be taken regularly, if you want it to help you.
- Evista should be used at the same time each day.
Adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D should be included in your diet; ask your doctor to advise you calcium/vitamin D supplements. Read the leaflet in the medication very attentively or contact your doctor or pharmacist if you need more explanations.
Estrogen is a hormone. Among his function is the regulation of the bone turnover (formation and destruction). Osteoporosis is a process when the estrogen levels that are seen after menopause or after removal of the ovaries, lead to a loss of bone density and weakened bones are decreased. Bone turnover is decreased and bone density is by Evista, although not to the same extent as estrogen itself. This makes bones stronger and prevents fractures in women with osteoporosis. Evista is called a "selective estrogen receptor modulator". It has effects like estrogen on some tissues but the effects of estrogen on other tissues are inhibited. Low density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol in the blood is decreased by Evista; however, unlike estrogen, high density lipoprotein (HDL or "good") cholesterol isn’t increased by Evista.
In case of missing a dose you should take drug as soon as possible. You shouldn’t take two doses together even if dose is missed. Follow your regular dosing instructions.
Evista should be stored at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) and out of the reach of children, away from pets. Brief periods at temperatures of 59 to 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) are permitted. US product isn’t stored in the bathroom, and it should be away from heat, moisture, and light. The Canadian product is stored at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) and out of the reach of children, away from pets. It shouldn’t be stored in the bathroom and in light and moisture.
Evista Safety infrmation
Notice your doctor or pharmacist if you have allergy to Raloxifene, or if you have any other allergies. Don’t use this medication if you have severe medical conditions. If you have active or past history of blood clots (e.g., deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, retinal vein thrombosis) you should contact your doctor or pharmacist. The risk for blood clots may be increased by lack of movement. You’ll take directions from your doctor to stop taking this medication at least 3 days before surgery or during long periods of inactivity (e.g., bedrest). Evista shouldn’t be taken until you are routinely and actively moving again. You should walk or move periodically to keep the blood flowing through your body. Your doctor should be informed of your medical history, especially of: liver disease, congestive heart failure, cancer, high blood cholesterol levels, history of high blood fat (triglyceride) levels due to estrogen treatment. Do not take this medication if you are pregnant because it may cause fetal harm. In case you are pregnant or think you are pregnant, your doctor should be informed of this possibility. There is no evident data of passing this drug into breast milk. Ask your doctor about breast-feeding.
Evista Side effects
If effects like hot flashes, sweating, or leg cramps become bothersomecontact your doctor or pharmacist immediately. Serious blood clots to form in the legs, lungs, or eyes may be caused by Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects occur: leg swelling/pain, trouble breathing, chest pain, vision changes. You should inform your doctor if you have not mentioned above effects.
This medication shouldn’t be shared with other people. All prescriptions of your doctor and the laboratory should be performed. At least once a year a complete physical examination, breast and pelvic examination, and PAP test (for vaginal cancer) have to be performed. Don’t forget about periodic mammograms as your doctor prescribes. Contact your doctor of examining your own breasts. To any unusual vaginal bleeding, breast pain, or lumps, immediately attention must be paid. Lifestyle changes that help promote healthy bones include increasing weight-bearing exercise, eating well-balanced meals that contain adequate calcium and vitamin D, stopping smoking, and limiting alcohol. You should talk to your doctor about lifestyle changes that might benefit you. To monitor your progress or check for side effects you may perform laboratory and/or medical tests (bone density tests, x-rays, height measurement, blood mineral levels). To know more information, contact your doctor.