Evista/Raloxifene

Posted by susanew @susanew, May 13 8:47am

Has anyone been using Evista (Raloxifene) for osteoporosis? Really freaking out about side effects of Reclast and other bisphosphonates. Your thoughts please.

Thanks.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Osteoporosis & Bone Health Support Group.

I'm very sorry to hear about the passing of your mom.
I'll definitely ask my pcp about Evista. Seems like a better choice.
Thank you and I wish you the best. Take care.

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@susanew

Here’s my take on Evista ..because I did check this out. It depends on where your osteoporosis is … for example, if you have a high dexa score in your vertebrae, this drug is good. But if you have high scores elsewhere, such as hips, this drug is not effective in preventing fractures. Also this drug comes with risks. “This medicine may increase your risk of a blood clot in your leg, your lung, or your eye. You should not take Evista if you have ever had this type of blood clot.”

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Right - Evista is not for everyone. Certain circumstances may not make it a good option for you. All have potential side effects, so weigh your own individual risks.

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I used evista for about 18
Months about 18-20 years ago. No problem and good response in spine. Stopped because of insurance no longer covering. I will consider it again if meds come up. No family history of blood clots, no cancer, and possible stroke in mother and grandmother when in 90’s.

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I used Evista for several years for osteopenia with no issues. I stopped when I turned 65 because of some saying that post 65 more women who take Evista have strokes. I was able to put off osteoporosis until I was 76. There were other contributing factors such as Knee Replacement surgery that kept me from getting a lot of weight bearing exercise for a while. Now I have osteoporosis in one hip and am taking Fosamax, also with no issues. I am now lifting light weights and wearing a weight vest when I walk hoping to build bone. I am hoping not to take Fosamax more than five and maybe only for a couple of years.

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I’ve been taking Evista for about two years. I discontinued Prolia because I felt it was the culprit for my significant hair loss (who knows), and I did not want to use Reclast for a variety of reasons. I have GI issues that rule out Fosomax. My endocrinologist offered Evista as an option even though we know it is not going to be as effective as some other choices. I mentioned the blood clotting possibility but she wasn’t too concerned as I do not have a history.

I will be 73 next month and will be looking into the age factor. Also I will be seeing the endocrinologist in October and will discuss. She seems very sharp and I do respect her opinion.

Best wishes,
Cindy

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I am on Tymlos now and plan to follow with Evista. My Dr is agreeable to this plan.

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@daisylou

I am on Tymlos now and plan to follow with Evista. My Dr is agreeable to this plan.

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Certain patients are at more risk than others for this type of event. Any doctor prescribing any medication for any patient should be aware of the risks and benefits for each particular patient. This one patient had dementia, and cardiovascular disease is often associated with dementia. She was also on two fairly new medications. There are too many unknowns to make a blanket association. Good for you and all of us to know the risks! Thanks for sharing.

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