Questions and Answers
What is the drug class of Raloxifene?
What does Raloxifene protect against?
Breast and endometrium cancer
In what situations is Raloxifene used?
What activity does Raloxifene stimulate estrogen receptors to inhibit?
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What does Raloxifene give osteoblasts a chance to do?
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What are some adverse effects of Raloxifene?
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What bone health measurement should nurses assess?
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Patients should be advised to eat more ______ and ______.
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Raloxifene protects against breast cancer.
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How should Raloxifene be taken?
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Raloxifene needs to be taken with food.
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What should patients report while on Raloxifene?
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What is one effect of Raloxifene similar to estrogen?
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Which of the following is a contraindication for Raloxifene?
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Raloxifene is taken ______ daily.
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Study Notes
Raloxifene (Evista) Overview
- Raloxifene belongs to the drug class of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs).
- It offers protection against breast and endometrial cancer, distinguishing it from other hormone therapies.
Indications
- Used in postmenopausal osteoporosis to prevent fractures and to lower the risk of breast cancer.
- Stimulates estrogen receptors leading to inhibition of osteoclastic activity, allowing osteoblasts to effectively build bone.
Adverse Effects
- Potential adverse effects include venous thromboembolism, pulmonary embolism, stroke, and fetal harm (category X).
- Additional side effects may include hot flashes, leg cramps, migraines, and flu-like symptoms.
Bone Mineral Density (BMD)
- Raloxifene can help preserve or increase bone mineral density (BMD), although it is not as effective as estrogen.
- It specifically reduces the risk of spinal fractures.
Actions Similar to Estrogen
- Increases BMD and decreases fracture risk similar to estrogen.
- Lowers LDL cholesterol, but also carries risks of fetal harm, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and hot flashes.
Differences from Estrogen
- Provides protection against breast cancer and does not stimulate endometrial growth or elevate HDL cholesterol, thereby preventing coronary artery disease (CAD).
- Less likely to cause breast pain and rare to lead to the return of menstruation in postmenopausal women.
Nursing Considerations
- Nurses should assess BMD using x-rays, serum, and urine markers.
- Advise patients to increase calcium and vitamin D intake, and incorporate regular exercise to avoid prolonged immobilization.
Patient Instructions
- Educate patients on potential hot flashes as a common side effect.
- Instruct patients to report any symptoms like leg pain, swelling in extremities, chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, and vision problems.
Coagulation and Medication Interactions
- Raloxifene acts as an estrogen agonist, which can promote coagulation.
- It may increase INR levels for patients on warfarin, necessitating a dosage adjustment.
Contraindications
- Contraindicated for pregnant women, individuals with thromboembolic disorders, or those with allergies to the medication.
Administration
- Recommended to be taken once daily, alongside calcium and vitamin D supplements.
- Can be taken independently of food, with a route of administration being oral (PO).
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Description
Test your knowledge on Raloxifene with these flashcards. Learn about its drug class, mechanisms, and clinical uses. This quiz covers key concepts for better understanding of selective estrogen receptor modulators.
