Raloxifene
Drugs affecting Bone Metabolism · Selective oestrogen receptor modulator
Indications
Prevention of non-traumatic vertebral fractures in post-menopausal women at increased risk of osteoporosis. Risk reduction of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.
Dosage
Adults: 1 tab daily. Children: Not applicable.
Adverse Effects
Hot flushes, leg cramps, peripheral oedema, decreased platelet counts, headache, flu syndrome, breast enlargement and tenderness, hypertension, GI upset, rash, increased BP.
Risk Factor (Pregnancy/Lactation)
Pregnancy: Contraindicated in pregnancy. Lactation: Contraindicated or not recommended. Contraindications: History of venous thromboembolic events, hepatic or severe renal impairment, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding endometrial or breast cancer, prolonged immobilisation. Precautions: Ensure adequate calcium and vit D intake. History of oestrogen-induced hypertriglyceridaemia. Mild to moderate renal impairment, breast cancer. History of stroke or significant risk factors.
Interactions
Systemic oestrogens, cholestyramine, oral anticoagulants.
Advice to Patient
Take with or without meals. Avoid alcohol during therapy. Stay in cool environment to reduce hot flushes. Take dietary supplements of calcium or vitamin D as recommended. For joint pain, consult prescriber for suitable analgesic. Report immediately redness/warmth/pain/cramping in leg muscles, difficulty in breathing, sudden chest pain, sudden change in vision. Contact prescriber if there is fever, lack of sleep, depression, acute migraine, unrelieved abdominal upset, unusual weight gain (>5 lb per week), vaginal burning or itching, urinary infection, unusual cough.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Rapid. Metabolism: Hepatic, extensive first-pass effect. Bioavailability: Approx. 2%. Half-life elimination: 27.7 hours (following a single dose); 32.5 hours (following multiple doses). Excretion: Feces (primarily); urine (<0.2% as unchanged drug; <6% as glucuronide conjugates).
Brands with this active ingredient
Compiled by Healify Pharmacy from published drug references. How we compile it →
Always consult a pharmacist or doctor.