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Available as tablets containing Raloxifene 60 mg supplied under the trade name EvistaÒ .

Raloxifene belongs to a class of drug called the "selective (o)estrogen receptor modulators" or "SERMs". It is able to attach itself to specific tissues in the body which are stimulated by oestrogen (female-type hormone) including bone. One of oestrogens most important roles is to stimulate the production of new bone as part of the process by which the quality of the bones is maintained. Raloxifene, like oestrogen, can also stimulate target sites in bone tissue. When oestrogen levels fall (as they begin to after the change of life) the bones become thin or brittle with the result that fractures are likely to occur. This is one of the common ways by which osteoporosis, which is associated with reduced bone density, occurs. Raloxifene is therefore used to maintain or increase bone density and thereby reduce the occurrence of fractures in post-menopausal women (or younger women without ovaries) who are at risk of osteoporosis or in whom osteoporosis is established. A further interesting effect of Raloxifene is that it also binds to oestrogen target sites on the breast but in this case it blocks stimulation of breast tissue by oestrogen (a means by which many breast cancers develop). Raloxifene might therefore be considered as an alternative to HRT in osteoporosis if there are concerns about breast cancer because there is a strong family history.

The dose of Raloxifene for all women is 60 mg (one tablet) which is taken once daily.

What side effects can be expected?

• Raloxifene appears to be well tolerated and only rarely does it cause nausea and vomiting or other stomach upsets.
  
• It has been reported to produce menopausal-type hot flushes when given to women several years after their menopause (change of life). This effect has been generally short lived and lasting for the first few months only.
  
• Some women have complained about the occurrence of leg cramps and fluid retention (oedema).
  
• Rarely allergic-type reactions, usually development of flu-like symptoms and skin rashes have developed.
  
• As is the case with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and because Raloxifene has oestrogen-like properties there may be a slight increase in the likelihood of deep vein thrombosis (formation of blood clots in the veins). The evidence so far is that, if this occurs, the risk is only a very small one.

Only a very small amount of Raloxifene is actually absorbed into the circulation when taken by mouth. This is further reduced by a medicine called Cholestyramine (QuestranÒ ) which, if relevant to you, should not therefore be taken at or around the time at which you take your daily Raloxifene dose.

Raloxifene tablets should be stored at room temperature. Avoid exposure to excessive heat or moisture.

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Ó NHS Tayside; 2006; version 1.0

Disclaimer; no liability whatsoever is accepted for information given and all such information, especially with regard to drug usage (UK version provided), must be checked with a person’s health provider.