Indications 

Evista is a prescribed medication indicated for the treatment or prevention of osteoporosis among postmenopausal women.  

Evista is also prescribed to decrease the likelihood of invasive breast cancer among postmenopausal women who have osteoporosis or are at high risk of developing invasive breast cancer. 

Categorized as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), Evista boosts bone density to prevent and treat osteoporosis by mimicking estrogen. It also reduces the risk of invasive breast cancer by impeding estrogen’s effects on breast tissue, potentially halting the development of estrogen-dependent tumors. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before starting treatment with Evista and every time you get a refill, carefully read its patient information leaflet and medication guide. For questions and clarifications, seek the guidance of your physician or pharmacist.  

Evista is usually taken once a day as prescribed by the doctor without regard to food intake. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed due to its bitter taste. 

Take Evista regularly to achieve optimal results. Avoid altering the dosage or frequency of administration without medical guidance and do not stop intake without talking to your doctor. 

Evista serves as a component of a comprehensive treatment regimen that may entail dietary modifications, physical activity, bone mineral density assessments, and calcium and vitamin D supplementation. Adhere to your doctor’s instructions very closely. 

Side Effects 

Potential adverse reactions associated with the use of Evista are listed below. If any of these symptoms last or worsen, promptly notify your physician. 

Common Side Effects 

• Hot flashes 
• Leg cramps 
• Swelling in the hands, feet, or ankles 
• Joint pain 
• Flu-like symptoms 
• Excessive sweating 

Serious Side Effects 

• Breast swelling, tenderness, or other alterations 
• Stroke symptoms, such as: 
  • Sudden weakness or numbness (particularly on one side of the body) 
  • Vision impairment 
  • Speech difficulties 
• Indications of a pulmonary embolism, including: 
  • Chest pain 
  • Breathing difficulties 
  • Coughing up blood 
• Indications of a deep vein thrombosis, such as: 
  • Swelling 
  • Warmth, or redness in the leg or arm 

Call your doctor right away if any of the severe symptoms listed above occur. 

Allergic Reactions 

Immediate medical assistance must be sought in the event of displaying signs of an allergic reaction to Evista, including: 

• Hives 
• Difficult breathing 
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat 

This list of adverse effects is not exhaustive. Contact your physician promptly if any unmentioned side effects occur and cause discomfort. 

Cautions 

Before taking Evista, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any known allergies, especially to raloxifene. Inactive ingredients of this medication can also trigger allergic reactions or other problems. Ask your pharmacist for more details. 

To ensure Evista is safe for you, disclose your medical history to your doctor, particularly if you have had: 

• Blood clots, including those in the legs, lungs, or eyes 
• Stroke or mini-stroke (transient ischemic attack – TIA) 
• Heart disease particularly blocked blood vessels in the heart or heart attack 
• Irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation 
• High blood pressure 
• Smoking habits 
• Kidney or liver disease 
• Heart failure 
• Cancer 
• High levels of blood fat (triglycerides) caused by estrogen treatment 

Certain products may have interactions with Evista, including but not limited to: 

• Bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine and colestipol 
• Estrogens 
• Tibolone 

To avoid such drug interaction, inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medications, dietary supplements, vitamins, and herbal products you are presently using or planning to use. 

Inform your physician if you have undergone or plan to undergo surgery or will be immobile for an extended period, such as during a long plane flight. These factors increase the risk of developing blood clots. Special precautions may need to be taken, including a temporary halt in Evista usage. 

Evista has the potential to disrupt laboratory examinations, which may result in misleading outcomes. Inform both laboratory staff and all medical professionals that you are taking this medication. 

Evista may help reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer, but there is still a possibility of developing the condition. Regular breast exams and mammograms are necessary before and during treatment with Evista. Notify your physician if any changes, such as tenderness, enlargement, or lumps, are observed in your breasts. 

If Evista is taken to treat osteoporosis, it is advisable to consult a physician regarding additional measures that can be taken to prevent the development or progression of the condition. Recommendations may include refraining from smoking and consuming excessive amounts of alcohol, as well as adhering to a regular weight-bearing exercise program. 

Refrain from using Evista during pregnancy, as it can potentially cause harm to a developing fetus. If you suspect that you are pregnant or become pregnant while using this medication, promptly inform your physician. 

Evista has the potential to be absorbed via the skin and lungs, thereby posing a risk to a developing fetus. Pregnant women or those who may be pregnant must avoid handling this medication or inhaling dust from the tablets. 

The excretion of raloxifene in human milk is uncertain. Consult with a doctor prior to nursing an infant while taking this medication.