Generic Evista - raloxifene - is prescribed to treat and prevent osteoporosis, the brittle-bone disease that strikes some women after menopause. Like estrogen, Evista reduces bone loss and increases bone density. However, it does not have estrogen-like effects on the uterus and breasts, and therefore is unlikely to increase the risk of cancer, as estrogen therapy sometimes can do.


 

FAQ

About Evista
Evista is neither an estrogen nor a hormone. It is a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator, or SERM. It helps build bone without negatively affecting the breast or uterus. Evista prevents and treats osteoporosis by actually helping make your bones stronger and less likely to break.

How to use Evista
Evista / Raloxifene comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day at any time, with or without food. To help you remember to take it, take Evista around the same time every day. Follow the Evista directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take  raloxifene exactly as directed. Do not take Evista more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Evista side effects
Evista / Raloxifene may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
• hot flashes (more common in the first 6 months of raloxifene therapy)
• leg cramps
• swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs

Some Evista side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
• sudden chest pain or chest heaviness
• difficulty breathing or coughing up blood
• pain, swelling, or warmth in the calves, legs, hands, or feet
• sudden change in your vision such as vision loss or blurring.


IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Before you have any kind of surgery, tell the medical doctor in charge that you are using Evista. Discuss discontinuing use of raloxifene 3 days before you think you will have a long period of inactivity, sitting, or bed rest, such as after having surgery or going on a long trip. The doctor may have you start Evista again after you are back on your feet and fully mobile. If you are going on a trip and stay on the drug, you should walk regularly or move about when possible. Remaining still for long periods may cause blood clots for some people, and Evista may rarely worsen their condition.

If you are able to become pregnant, stop using Evista immediately if you think you have become pregnant and check with your doctor. Raloxifene is recommended for women who are past menopause.

Evista does not act like an estrogen to stimulate the uterus or breast. If you experience vaginal bleeding, breast pain or enlargement, or swelling of hands or feet while on Evista, you should report it to your doctor.