Raloxifene Drug Overview

What is the brand name of Raloxifene?

What is the drug class of Raloxifene?

What is the dosing for Raloxifene in postmenopausal osteoporosis?

What is the MOA of Raloxifene?

What is the renal dose adjustment for Raloxifene?

Are there pharmacogenetics for Raloxifene?

What are the contraindications to Raloxifene?

What are the boxed warnings for Raloxifene?

What are the drug interactions with Raloxifene?

What are COMMON adverse reactions to Raloxifene?

What are RARE BUT SERIOUS adverse reactions to Raloxifene?

What are the efficacy monitoring parameters for Raloxifene?

What are the toxicity monitoring parameters for Raloxifene?

Raloxifene Overview

Brand name: Evista
Class: Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM)

Dosing Information

Breast cancer prophylaxis in postmenopausal women at high risk: 60 mg orally daily
Postmenopausal osteoporosis prevention or treatment: 60 mg orally daily

Mechanism of Action

Functions as a SERM by binding estrogen receptors
Agonistic effects in bone tissue, promoting increased bone mineral density (BMD) and decreased bone turnover
Antagonistic effects in other tissues to block estrogenic pathways

Dosage Adjustments and Pharmacogenetics

No renal dosage adjustments needed
No pharmacogenetic considerations identified

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to raloxifene
Pregnancy and lactation
Current or historical thromboembolic disorders

Boxed Warnings

Associated risks of venous thromboembolism
Increased risk of stroke

Drug Interactions

Bile acid sequestrants: can reduce the absorption of raloxifene; use is discouraged

Adverse Reactions

Common: Hot flashes, arthralgia, flu-like symptoms
Rare but Serious: Edema, hypertriglyceridemia, venous thromboembolism, cerebrovascular accidents, pulmonary embolism

Monitoring Parameters

Efficacy:
- DEXA scan for BMD if used for osteoporosis
- Mammogram for breast cancer prevention
- Monitor for absence of breast cancer when used for prophylaxis
Toxicity:
- Watch for weight gain, shortness of breath, signs of stroke, symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and triglyceride levels

This quiz covers raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used for breast cancer prophylaxis and osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It includes information on dosing, mechanism of action, contraindications, and drug interactions. Test your knowledge on this important medication and its clinical use.