Taking Evista may increase your risk of a blood clot in your leg, your lung, or your eye. You should not take this medicine if you have ever had a blood clot.
Evista can also increase your risk of a stroke, which can be fatal. This risk is highest if you have coronary heart disease or certain risk factors (such as diabetes, smoking, being overweight, having high blood pressure or high cholesterol, or having a family history of coronary artery disease).
Although this medicine is for use only in postmenopausal women, you should not take Evista if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Before taking this medicine
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.
This medicine is for use only in women who can no longer get pregnant. Raloxifene can harm an unborn baby. Do not use if you are pregnant or may become pregnant.
Do not breastfeed while taking Evista.
Raloxifene can increase your risk of a stroke, which can be fatal. Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
heart problems, irregular heartbeats;
a heart attack or stroke, including "mini-stroke";
high blood pressure;
cancer; or
if you smoke.
To make sure Evista is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
a blood clot;
high triglycerides caused by using estrogen;
liver or kidney disease;
endometriosis;
abnormal vaginal bleeding; or
if you have not gone through menopause.
How should I take Evista?
Take Evista exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets.
Take the medicine at the same time each day, with or without food.
If you need major surgery or will be on long-term bed rest, you will need to stop taking Evista at least 3 days ahead of time. You may not be able to restart the medicine until you are active again. Tell any doctor or surgeon who treats you that you take this medicine.
Evista is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet changes, exercise, bone mineral density testing, and taking calcium and vitamin D supplements. Follow your doctor's instructions very closely.
Your doctor should check your progress on a regular basis. Self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis, and have regular mammograms.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
