Raloxifene is a medication primarily used to treat and prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It belongs to a class of drugs called selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). Unlike estrogen, raloxifene has estrogenic effects on bones, helping to increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. However, it has anti-estrogenic effects on breast and uterine tissue, making it beneficial for women at risk of breast cancer or with a history of blood clots.
Aside from osteoporosis prevention, raloxifene is also prescribed to reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis or at high risk of breast cancer. It's important to note that raloxifene does not eliminate the risk of breast cancer entirely and may increase the risk of blood clots and strokes.
Regular monitoring and discussion with a healthcare provider are crucial when taking raloxifene to assess its benefits and risks, especially regarding its impact on bone health and breast cancer risk.
