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.

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mollylyn | @mollylyn | Jun 4 5:31am

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.

active1 | @active1 | Jun 4 7:34am

In reply to @susanew "Here’s my take on Evista ..because I did check this out. It depends on where your..." + (show)

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.

mpc1 | @mpc1 | Jun 5 10:54am

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.

lalaj | @lalaj | Jun 6 12:40pm

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.

cmdw2600 | @cmdw2600 | Jun 7 6:54am

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

daisylou | @daisylou | Jun 8 8:15am

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

daisylou | @daisylou | Jun 8 8:40am

In reply to @daisylou "I am on Tymlos now and plan to follow with Evista. My Dr is agreeable to..." + (show)

Just found this: might change m mind and not take Raloxifene
https://www.cureus.com/articles/375554-cerebral-venous-sinus-thrombosis-during-raloxifene-therapy-a-case-report

mpc1 | @mpc1 | Jun 9 8:59am

In reply to @daisylou "Just found this: might change m mind and not take Raloxifene https://www.cureus.com/articles/375554-cerebral-venous-sinus-thrombosis-during-raloxifene-therapy-a-case-report" + (show)

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.

cmatula | @cmatula | Aug 31 6:51pm

In reply to @mollylyn "I just started Fosamax for osteoporosis. I can't afford evenity so trying Fosamax which Medicare advantage..." + (show)

Hi --- I am new to this forum but noticed you are on the same osteo plan (fosamax ) as me. I've been having increasing dental/gum issues, some headaches and tiredness --I've been on Fosamax for 6mos now.
Have you been able to switch to a new regime?
My insurance has denied other options until I go through Fosamax -- I hope this does not lead to ONJ --- I will have to check to see how they can test for this...

mollylyn | @mollylyn | Sep 5 10:00am

Hi, I am starting to have some side effects with Fosamax such as jaw pain, Gerd, and bone/hip/thigh pain. I feel kind of achy. I take calcium, d3, k2 and collagen. I don't want to start prolia or reclast injections, heard they have more side effects. Bad thing, once on an osteo med, you're on it for life. You transition to another one after so many years. Exercise as much as you can, I was strengthening my core for the last 2 years because of back surgery and it is helpful. I had to take a break sadly because I was in a car accident and fractured sternum, rib, and a collapsed lung...this is another long road to recovery which is frustrating. I would have started envity if my insurance would cover more, ot was 1089 for me out of pocket per month, can't do that. Medicare doesn't cover much for me.
I asked about Evista, it doesn't cause onj but one issue is possible blood clot with that but my heart is good.
I wish you the very best in making a decision on what med to take. Discuss your concerns with your doctor. Keep active, move, exercise. Be well and take care of yourself.