How does it work?

Raloxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). It has actions similar to those of oestrogens on bone tissue, but not on uterine or breast tissues. At the menopause blood levels of oestrogen (the main female sex hormone) decrease, which leads to a loss of bone density. Bone loss is particularly rapid for the first ten years after the menopause. This may lead to the development of osteoporosis - a condition in which the bones are brittle and break more easily. Raloxifene binds to oestrogen receptors and stimulates their action in bone and the cardiovascular system. This leads to the an eventual increase in the density of bone. Raloxifene is used to treat postmenopausal osteoporosis. It is not useful in the treatment of menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes.

What is it used for?

Used to help prevent the development of osteoporosis

Use with caution in

Immobility

Those with risk factors for developing dangerous blood clots in the blood vessels, such as obesity, immobility, varicose veins or a history of blood clot disorders

Not to be used in

Blood clot in the blood vessels

Breast cancer

Decreased liver function

Endometrial cancer

Failure of normal bile flow to the intestine (cholestasis)

Known sensitivity or allergy to any ingredient

Severe kidney disease

Vaginal bleeding of unknown cause

Women of child-bearing age

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Significant amounts of this medicine may pass into breast milk. It should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. Discuss this with your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Swelling of the legs and ankles due to excess fluid retention (peripheral oedema)

Leg cramps

Hot flushes

Blood clot moving through the veins causing blockage(thromboembolism) or inflammation of the vein wall (thrombophlebitis)

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

How can this medicine affect other medicines?

The absorption of raloxifene is reduced by cholestyramine and it is recommended that they are not used together. When used together with warfarin or nicoumalone, raloxifene may reduce the blood thinning effects of these medicines.

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