Raloxifene
Raloxifene
Raloxifene (pronounced rəˈlɒksɪfiːn) is a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM) that is primarily used in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It is also used to reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women who have osteoporosis or who are at risk of invasive breast cancer.
Etymology
The term "Raloxifene" is derived from its chemical name, [6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-benzo[b]thien-3-yl]-[4-(2-piperidin-1-yl-ethoxy)phenyl]-methanone. The "Ralox" part of the name is a blend of parts of the words 'ral' from benzothiophene and 'ox' from phenox, and the 'ifene' suffix is common to other SERMs, such as tamoxifene.
Usage
Raloxifene is taken orally, usually once per day. It works by acting like estrogen (a natural hormone produced by the body) to prevent bone loss that can develop in women after menopause. However, it does not act like estrogen in the breast and uterus, and so does not increase the risk of breast or uterine cancer.
Related Terms
Side Effects
Like all medications, Raloxifene can cause side effects. Common side effects include hot flashes, leg cramps, swelling of the legs and feet, flu-like symptoms, joint pain, and sweating. More serious side effects can include blood clots in the legs or lungs, stroke, and a higher risk of dying due to stroke.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Raloxifene
- Wikipedia's article - Raloxifene
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