Raloxifene

Raloxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used primarily for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It belongs to a class of drugs that can selectively bind to estrogen receptors, mimicking the effects of estrogen on certain tissues while blocking them in others.
Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by a decrease in bone density and strength, which increases the risk of fractures, particularly in postmenopausal women due to the decline in estrogen levels. Raloxifene helps to prevent bone loss and improve bone mineral density, thus reducing the risk of fractures, particularly in the spine and wrist.
Apart from its bone-protecting effects, Raloxifene also offers some protection against breast cancer, as it has been shown to reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. However, it is not recommended for use in women at high risk of uterine cancer, as it may increase the risk of endometrial cancer.
Raloxifene is usually prescribed as a once-daily oral tablet, and its side effects are generally mild and manageable. Common side effects include hot flashes, leg cramps, and sweating. More serious side effects, although rare, can include blood clots in the legs and lungs, and severe joint pain.
Raloxifene should not be used as a substitute for estrogen therapy in all cases, especially in women with a history of blood clots or cardiovascular disease. Healthcare professionals should carefully assess the benefits and risks of Raloxifene therapy for each individual patient.