Raloxifene Hydrochloride: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects | MedexInfo

Raloxifene Hydrochloride

Rx

Generic NameRaloxifene Hydrochloride

Therapeutic ClassSelective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM)

Common Strength60 mg tablet

PregnancyContraindicated

Indications ▼

Osteoporosis (Postmenopausal Women): Prevention and treatment to increase bone mineral density and reduce vertebral fracture risk.

Breast Cancer Risk Reduction: Reduces risk of invasive estrogen receptor–positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Raloxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator. It acts as an estrogen agonist on bone (reducing bone resorption) and lipid metabolism, while acting as an antagonist on breast and uterine tissue.

Pharmacokinetics: Well absorbed orally but undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism. Highly protein bound. Half-life approximately 27 hours due to enterohepatic recycling. Excreted mainly in feces.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Indication	Dose	Frequency / Notes
Osteoporosis / Breast Cancer Risk Reduction	60 mg	Once daily, with or without food

Note: Ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D. Not indicated for premenopausal women.

Side Effects ▼

Hot flashes

Leg cramps

Peripheral edema

Flu-like symptoms

Increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE)

Rare: stroke (especially in high-risk patients)

Contraindications ▼

Pregnancy and lactation

Active or past history of venous thromboembolism (DVT, PE)

Prolonged immobilization

Hypersensitivity to raloxifene

Drug Interaction ▼

Warfarin: may affect prothrombin time; monitor INR

Cholestyramine: significantly reduces raloxifene absorption

Estrogen therapy: concomitant use not recommended

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Pregnancy: Contraindicated; may cause fetal harm

Lactation: Contraindicated

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Clinical Role: First-line option for postmenopausal osteoporosis in women at risk of breast cancer.

Advantage: Improves bone density and reduces ER-positive breast cancer risk without stimulating endometrium.

Limitation: Does not reduce risk of hip fracture; increased risk of thromboembolism.

Monitoring: Signs of VTE, stroke risk factors, bone mineral density.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Take once daily at the same time

Maintain adequate calcium and vitamin D intake

Report leg swelling, chest pain, or sudden shortness of breath immediately

Discontinue at least 72 hours before prolonged immobilization

Storage & Handling ▼

Store below 30°C

Keep in original packaging

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh:

Aloxif® 60 mg Ralox® 60 mg

Global:

Evista®

Medical Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: SERMs • Condition: Osteoporosis • Condition: Breast Cancer Risk Reduction