Raloxifene tablets

January 28, 2018

Raloxifene tablets

What is this medicine?

RALOXIFENE (ral OX i feen) reduces the amount of calcium lost from bones. It is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis in women who have experienced menopause. It may also help prevent invasive breast cancer in certain women who have a high risk for breast cancer.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. The tablets can be taken with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue)

  • breast tissue changes or discharge

  • signs and symptoms of a blood clot such as breathing problems; changes in vision; chest pain; severe, sudden headache; pain, swelling, warmth in the leg; trouble speaking; sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg

  • signs and symptoms of a stroke like changes in vision; confusion; trouble speaking or understanding; severe headaches; sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg; trouble walking; dizziness; loss of balance or coordination

  • vaginal discharge that is bloody, brown, or rust

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • hot flashes

  • joint pain

  • leg cramps

  • sweating

  • swelling of the ankles, feet, hands

What may interact with this medicine?

  • cholestyramine

  • female hormones, like estrogens

  • warfarin

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • a history of blood clots

  • cancer

  • heart disease or recent heart attack

  • high levels of triglycerides (blood fat) in the blood

  • history of stroke

  • kidney disease

  • liver disease

  • premenopausal

  • smoke tobacco

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to raloxifene, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Do not stop taking this medicine except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

If you are taking this medicine to reduce your risk of getting breast cancer, you should know that this medicine does not prevent all types of breast cancer. Talk to your doctor if you have questions.

This medicine does not prevent hot flashes. It may cause hot flashes in some patients at the start of therapy.

You should make sure that you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this medicine. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your health care professional.

Exercise may help to prevent bone loss. Discuss your exercise needs with your doctor or health care professional.

This medicine can rarely cause blood clots. If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor or health care professional that you are taking this medicine. This medicine should be stopped at least 3 days before surgery. After surgery, it should be restarted only after you are walking again. It should not be restarted while you still need long periods of bed rest.

You should not smoke while taking this medicine. Smoking may increase your risk of blood clots or stroke.

If you have any reason to think you are pregnant; stop taking this medicine at once and contact your doctor or health care professional.

Do not breast feed while taking this medicine.

Updated:  

January 28, 2018