Evista

Other names used:

• Raloxifene®

Active Ingredients:

• raloxifene HCl

How does Evista work and what pharmaceutical group does it belong to?

Evista contains the active ingredient raloxifene that belongs to a group of preparations called estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). The medication possesses both estrogenic and anti-estrogen properties. Evista exerts estrogenic effects on the bone tissue resulting in bones strengthening and anti-estrogen effects on the breasts. It is known that estrogen stimulate the growth of tumor in women with breast cancer. By exerting anti-estrogenic action on the breast Evista helps to reduce the risk of development breast cancer.

Which conditions are treated with Evista?

Evista is indicated in the following conditions:

• Prophylaxis and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
• Lowering the risk if breast cancer in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis
• Lowering the risk if breast cancer in postmenopausal women

What should a patient avoid while taking the medication?

The medication should not taken in the following conditions:

• Known allergy or hypersensitivity to any of the medication ingredients
• Thromboembolia, including thrombosis of the deep veins, embolia of the pulmonary artery, thrombosis of the retina veins
• Severe liver dysfunction
• Cancer
• Stroke or "mini stroke"
• Congestive heart failure
• Renal failure(kidney disease)
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• Make sure to inform your health care provider if you smoke, if you are have not gone through the menopause, have an upcoming any surgical interventions.

Which adverse effects may manifest when using the medication?

The most common Evista side effects include: hot flashes, joint pain, flu-like symptoms, water retention in the organism, muscle spasms, sinus infection, headache, muscle cramps, headache, weight gain, insomnia, vaginal discharges, sweating and pneumonia.

The serious and less frequent side effects include: signs of blood stroke, signs of blood clot, sudden vision loss, high triglycerides, gall stones, uterine bleedings.

It is not necessary that the side effects will manifest in an individual but the possibility still exist. For more information please consult your health care provider.

Which groups of drugs or specific preparations may interact with Evista?

The drug is affected by the following:

• Bile-acid sequestrant
• Estrogen medications, including many oral contraceptives (birth control pills) and hormone replacement therapies
• Thyroid medications
• Blood thinners
• Tranquilizers(diazepam)

Tell your doctor about all the herbal preparations as well as prescription drugs that you are currently taking even if they are not on the list.

Important information for the patient:

Evista is supplied for individual use. Do not use it to treat other conditions not listed in the leaflet. Keep the product out of children reach. Do not reuse any disposable materials if supplied with the preparation.