Raloxifene Hydrochloride
Raloxifene
Raloxifene is an FDA-approved medication to prevent and treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer. It contains raloxifene hydrochloride that works as a selective estrogen receptor modulator, mimicking estrogen’s beneficial effects on bone density while blocking its potentially harmful effects on breast and uterine tissues. It is available in the form of an oral tablet with the strength of 60 mg, to be taken with or without food. You should take Raloxifene exactly as your doctor directed. Ask your physician or healthcare provider if you have any concerns or queries regarding your medicine usage.
Product Overview
Raloxifene contains the active ingredient raloxifene hydrochloride, which is used to prevent & treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer. It works as a SERM or selective estrogen receptor modulator, mimicking estrogen’s beneficial effects on bone density while blocking its potentially harmful effects on breast and uterine tissues.
Each tablet contains 60mg of raloxifene hydrochloride. The recommended dosage is 60mg once daily, taken orally with or without food. It is suitable for adult women who are postmenopausal. Raloxifene is designed to increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures, offering significant benefits for postmenopausal women at risk of osteoporosis and invasive breast cancer.
Common side effects of Raloxifene include leg cramps, hot flashes, and swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet. Adverse side effects, such as blood clots & stroke, are rare but require immediate medical attention. It is essential to take Raloxifene exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double doses. Store Raloxifene at a controlled room temperature, away from light, moisture & heat, and keep it out of reach of children and pets. Consult your medical provider regularly to monitor your progress & discuss any concerns or side effects.
What Are the Uses of Raloxifene?
It is used to:
- Prevent and treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
- Reduce chances of having invasive breast cancer
What Are the Forms & Strengths of Raloxifene?
It is available in the form of a tablet that comes in the strength of:
- 60 mg
What Are the Recommended Dosage of Raloxifene?
For Preventing Osteoporosis
- Adults: 60 mg once daily, orally by mouth with or without meals.
For Treating Osteoporosis
- Adults: 60 mg once daily, orally by mouth with or without meals.
For Preventing Invasive Breast Cancer
- Adults: 60 mg once daily, orally by mouth with or without meals.
[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]
How to Use Raloxifene?
- Before using Raloxifene, carefully read and follow the instructions for use given in the patient information leaflet and prescription label provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
- If you have any queries or concerns or if you do not understand any part of the leaflet, ask your doctor.
- Many people attempting to prevent or treat bone loss won’t recognize the symptoms, and many might even feel normal. You should use Raloxifene as prescribed.
- Use Raloxifene exactly as directed by your doctor, orally by mouth, usually once daily, with or without food.
- The dosage of the medication depends on your medical condition, the strength of the tablet, the number of doses you take every day, and the duration of treatment.
- Do not crush, chew, or break the Raloxifene tablet. Try to swallow it whole, as it may have a bitter taste when broken.
- To get the most benefit of your medication, try to maintain consistency in dosage and take it around the same time every day.
- Include an adequate amount of calcium & vitamin D in your diet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you need to take supplements for these.
- Since Raloxifene may be absorbed through the skin & lungs and can cause harm to the fetus, women who are pregnant, suspect a pregnancy, or become pregnant should not use this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets.
- If you are going to be on extended bed rest or undergoing major surgery, your doctor may advise you to stop taking this medication at least three days in advance. You may be unable to restart the medication until you are active again. Tell your doctor or surgeon who treats your medical condition that you are taking Raloxifene.
- This medication is only part of a complete treatment program that may include exercise, diet changes, bone mineral density, and vitamin D and calcium supplements. Follow your doctor’s instructions very carefully.
- You should regularly visit your doctor to check your progress and unwanted side effects. You should self-examine your breasts for lumps every month and have regular mammograms.
- Keep this medication at a controlled room temperature, away from moisture, light, and heat.
- Do not share your medications with others, even if they have the same condition as you.
- Continue taking Raloxifene even if you feel well. Do not discontinue using this medication even if you feel well.
- While you are taking this medication, you should avoid sitting for long periods.
- Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it worsens.
[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]
How Does Raloxifene Work?
Raloxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator, also known as SERM, that functions as both an estrogen agonist & antagonist in different tissues. It mimics the effects of estrogen on bones, helping to increase bone density & decrease the risk of fractures, which is particularly beneficial for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. At the same time, Raloxifene blocks the effects of estrogen on breast and uterine tissues, thereby decreasing the risk of developing breast cancer in high-risk postmenopausal women. This dual action makes Raloxifene a valuable medication for managing osteoporosis and lowering the risk of invasive breast cancer without the adverse effects associated with hormone replacement therapy.
Important Safety Information for Using Raloxifene
What Are the Side Effects of Raloxifene?
Common Side Effects of Raloxifene: Your doctor has prescribed this medication as they have determined its benefits outweigh the side effects. Most of these side effects are not serious and do not require any medical attention. These side effects disappear within a few days as your body adjusts to this medication. The list below does not cover all possible serious side effects of the medication. Some side effects caused by Raloxifene may include:
- Hot flashes
- Swelling in your hands, ankles or feet
- Leg cramps
- Flu symptoms
- Diarrhea
- Ankle swelling
- Joint pain
- Increased sweating
Mild Side Effects of Raloxifene: Most mild side effects caused by this medication are temporary and usually do not require medical attention. However, if they become bothersome or persist, tell your doctor.
- Chest pain
- Bloody or cloudy urine
- Fever
- Difficult, burning, or painful urination
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Skin rash
- Mild allergic reaction
- Vaginal itching
- Mental or mood changes
- Weight gain
Serious Side Effects of Raloxifene: In rare cases, some people using Raloxifene may experience serious side effects of Raloxifene. It is important to mention that not everyone using this medication will experience these side effects. These symptoms require prompt medical attention and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Contact your doctor or call 911 or poison control helpline if you experience any of the following symptoms.
- Severe allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis: Symptoms may include hives, rash, itching & swelling of the throat, face, tongue, feet, ankles, or leg.
- Blood clots, especially in the lungs or legs. The risk is higher in the first few months of treatment.
- Cardiovascular problems: Cardiovascular death in postmenopausal women with coronary heart disease of high risk for coronary events.
- Endometrial cancer
- Liver damage
- Severe leg cramps
- Worsened hot flashes
- Retinal vein thrombosis
- Pulmonary embolism
- Osteonecrosis of the jaw
[Note: This list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]
Are There Any Warnings for Raloxifene?
While using Raloxifene, you should keep in mind the following warnings. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns or queries regarding any of the warnings.
- Blood clots: Raloxifene may increase your risk of having a blood clot in your lung, leg, or eye. Do not take Raloxifene if you have or have ever had this type of clot.
- Stroke: It may also increase your risk of having a stroke, which can be life-threatening. The risk is greater if you have certain risk factors, such as having heart problems, smoking, high blood pressure, or a history of stroke or heart attack.
- Pregnancy: This medication is indicated for use in postmenopausal women only who can no longer become pregnant. However, if you are pregnant or suspect a pregnancy, you should tell your doctor immediately, as Raloxifene may harm the unborn baby. You should not use this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets, as this medication may be absorbed through the skin and lungs.
- Breastfeeding: Raloxifene may pass into breast milk and cause harm to the nursing infant. Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
What Are the FDA Boxed Warning for Raloxifene?
A boxed warning for Raloxifene has been issued by the FDA due to two main risks: Venous thromboembolism & death due to stroke.
Raloxifene may increase the chances of blood clots in the legs or lungs. If you have a history of blood clots, your doctor may advise against taking it. Stop taking Raloxifene and contact your doctor immediately if you experience leg pain, warmth in the lower leg, swelling, sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, or sudden vision changes. Staying still for extended periods can increase the risk of blood clots. Your doctor may tell you to stop taking Raloxifene at least three days before surgery or if you need extended bed rest. If traveling, avoid sitting still for too long. If you have or are at high risk for coronary artery disease, Raloxifene may increase the risk of a serious or fatal stroke. Inform your doctor if you have a history of stroke, mini-stroke, smoking, high blood pressure, or irregular heartbeat.
What Are the Raloxifene Precautions?
- Before taking this medication, you should tell your doctor if you are allergic to Raloxifene, any other medications present in the product, or any other medications. Ask your physician, pharmacist, or healthcare provider for the full list of ingredients present in the product.
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking or plan to take, including all prescription, non-prescription, over-the-counter drugs and herbal or vitamin supplements. Make sure to mention any of the following drugs: blood thinners such as warfarin, colestipol, diazepam, and diazoxide, and medications that include estrogen, such as hormone replacement therapy and lidocaine. Your doctor may change the medication doses or monitor your symptoms carefully for unwanted side effects.
- Before taking this medication, let your doctor or healthcare provider know if you have any of the following conditions, including history of breast lumps or breast cancer, any type of cancer, heart failure, kidney disease, or liver disease.
- Inform your doctor if you have ever taken estrogen if your triglycerides rose while you were receiving treatment.
- Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. You should not become pregnant while taking this medication as it may harm the fetus.
- This medication has not been found to cause spotting or vaginal bleeding, nor does it increase the chances of cancer of the lining of the womb. If you develop menstrual-like bleeding or spotting, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor will examine you or suggest certain tests to determine the reason for the bleeding.
- Although Raloxifene decreases the chance of developing invasive breast cancer, you may still be at risk of developing this condition. You may still be required to visit your doctor regularly to get a breast examination and mammograms before taking this medication and while receiving treatment with Raloxifene. Call your doctor at once if you experience enlargement, tenderness, lumps, or any other changes in your breasts.
- If you are taking this medication to treat bone loss, tell your doctor about other ways to prevent or treat osteoporosis. Your doctor will most likely tell you to regularly follow a program of weight-bearing activities and avoid smoking, tobacco intake, or consuming large amounts of alcohol.
What Are the Contraindications of Raloxifene?
Raloxifene is contraindicated for use in patients who have:
- History of deep vein thrombosis
- Rena vein thrombosis
- Pulmonary embolism
- Malignancy
- Active smoking
- Any thrombophilia
What If You Missed a Dose of Raloxifene?
- If you have missed a dose of Raloxifene, you should take it as soon as you remember.
- However, if it is almost time for your next dose, you may omit the missed dose and continue taking your medication according to your regular dosing schedule.
- Do not take double or extra doses to compensate for the missed dose. To prevent further missed doses, you can set a reminder on your phone. A medication reminder works best for this purpose.
[Note: If you have missed a medication dose and are unsure when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]
What Happens If You Take Too Much of Raloxifene?
Symptoms of an overdose of Raloxifene may include leg cramps, loss of coordination, dizziness, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, flushing, and nausea. If you suspect an overdose, you should immediately call your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. If someone has taken Raloxifene more than recommended and is having severe symptoms such as passing out, difficulty breathing, or seizures, you should immediately call 911 or the poison control helpline. You can also head to the nearest emergency room.
[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]
How to Store a Raloxifene?
- You should keep Raloxifene at a controlled room temperature between 20°C-25°C or 68°F- 77 °F in a tightly closed container away from direct sunlight, excess heat, and moisture.
- Do not store it in the bathroom, near the sink, or places high in moisture.
- Keep all medications, including Raloxifene, in a safe place, away from the sight and reach of children and pets.
- Do not use medications that have passed their expiration date, which is the last day of the month mentioned on the back of the prescription label or carton.
- Do not keep medications that are no longer needed or outdated. Discard them safely.
- Do not pour them down the drain, flush them into the toilet, or throw them into the household garbage bin.
- You should dispose of unwanted medications in such a way that prevents children, animals, and others from consuming them.
- The best way to eliminate unwanted medications is to give them away in the medicine take-back program.
- Consult your pharmacist, healthcare provider, or local waste disposal company for more information on disposing of unwanted medications.
[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional the proper disposal of unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]
What Medications Interact with Raloxifene?
Certain medications may interact with Raloxifene and affect how it may work. Before taking Raloxifene, consult a licensed healthcare professional and tell them about all the medications you are currently taking or plan to take, including all prescription medications, non-prescription, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal or vitamin supplements. It is important to mention the list given below does not include all potential drug interactions, and there may be other drugs that interact with Raloxifene. Talk to your doctor to learn more about how you can prevent or manage drug interactions.
- Estrogens
- Cholestyramine
- Colestipol
- Anticoagulants
- Levothyroxine
- Diazepam
What Are the Other Raloxifene Interactions?
Other than medications, certain supplements, herbs, foods, and beverages may interact with Raloxifene. Here is an overview of some important interactions:
- Calcium supplements
- Vitamin D
- St. John’s Wort
- High consumption of soy products
- Alcohol
- High caffeine intake
- Cholestyramine
There are five disease interactions with Raloxifene
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Thromboembolism
- Renal impairment
- Hypertriglyceridemia
[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Raloxifene. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]
What Are the Raloxifene Alternatives?
People look for alternative medications to Raloxifene when it does not suit them, or they do not get the desired results from it. There are many effective substitutes for Raloxifene present in the market, but you should consult a licensed healthcare professional before changing your medication or starting a new medication, as it can cause unwanted side effects. Based on certain factors, such as the condition being treated, medical history, and your requirements, they will help you determine the medication that works best for you.
- Forteo (teriparatide)
- Tymlos (abaloparatide)
- Prolia (denosumab)
- Evenity (romosozumab)
- Alendronate
- Fosamax (alendronate)
[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Raloxifene the same as tamoxifen?
No, Raloxifene and tamoxifen are different medications. Both are selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) but serve different purposes. Raloxifene is primarily used to treat and prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer, whereas tamoxifen is mainly used to treat & prevent breast cancer in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Despite their similarities, their indications and mechanisms of action differ.
How long can you take Raloxifene for osteoporosis?
The duration of Raloxifene treatment for osteoporosis can vary based on individual needs & medical advice. Typically, it is taken long-term to maintain bone density and reduce fracture risk. It’s important to have regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider or doctor to determine the treatment’s effectiveness and make adjustments as needed. Long-term use is generally considered safe, but periodic evaluation is crucial to ensure ongoing benefits and monitor for any potential side effects.
What are the benefits of taking Raloxifene?
Raloxifene offers several benefits, including the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, reduction of spinal fracture risk, and lowering the risk of invasive breast cancer. It mimics estrogen’s positive effects on bone density while blocking estrogen’s harmful effects on breast and uterine tissues. Additionally, Raloxifene has been shown to improve cholesterol levels by reducing LDL (bad cholesterol), which can contribute to overall cardiovascular health.
What does Raloxifene do to the body?
Raloxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator that increases bone density and reduces fracture risk in postmenopausal women. It acts like estrogen on bones, promoting bone strength while blocking estrogen’s effects on breast and uterine tissues, thereby reducing the risk of breast cancer. This dual action makes Raloxifene an effective medication for managing bone health and reducing the risk of hormone-related cancers without the adverse effects associated with hormone replacement therapy.
How to take Raloxifene 60 mg?
Raloxifene 60 mg is taken orally once daily, with or without food. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions precisely. Do not crush, break, or chew the Raloxifene tablet; swallow it whole. Maintain a consistent schedule and take it at the same time each day for optimal effectiveness. To ensure maximum benefit, incorporate a diet rich in calcium & vitamin D and engage in weight-bearing exercises as advised by your healthcare provider.
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