Evista (Raloxifene)

Evista is a relatively new drug that is similar to Tamoxifen. Tamoxifen, known as the breast cancer drug, is used to lower the risk of recurrence in breast cancer patients.

Studies on these patients showed that they had small increases in bone density. Evista was developed as an osteoporosis drug – it produces a significant increase in bone density. Evista also has the effect of lowering the risk for breast cancer.

Evista blocks the action of estrogen on the breast and uterine tissue, lowering the risk of estrogen-related cancers. However, Evista behaves like estrogen to increase bone density.

Unfortunately, Evista does not relieve the symptoms of menopause and can even make hot flashes worse or cause them in some women. This may not be the best drug for you if you are presently in menopause.

Some women choose hormone replacement therapy during menopause and the following five years, then switch to Evista.

Pros:

• Evista increases bone mineral density in both the hip and the spine. The MORE (Multiple Outcomes of Raloxifene Evaluation) Study showed a 2.1% increase in the femoral neck of the hip and a 2.6% increase in the spine after three years of follow up.
• Evista reduces the risk of fracture in the spine.
• Evista may have a beneficial effect on heart health by reducing cholesterol and triglicerides (fats in the blood).
• Some studies show that Evista reduces the risk of breast cancer.

Cons:

• Some women experience an increase in hot flashes.
• Women at risk for deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the legs) should not take Evista.
• Some women experience edema (swelling) in the legs.