Menopause is a time when many changes occur in a woman's life. Along with hormonal changes, certain changes also occur in the body. The main problem that some women face during this time is that their bones become weak and weak. Has your doctor prescribed you a medicine called Raloxifene to strengthen your bones and reduce the risk of breast cancer? So, today we will talk very simply about what this medicine is, what it does, and what we need to be careful about while using it.
Simply put, what is Raloxifene?
Raloxifene is a special medication given to women after menopause, that is, after their periods have completely stopped. It is used for two main reasons.
1. Strengthening bones: After menopause, the body's estrogen levels decrease, causing bones to become less dense and weaker. This condition is called osteoporosis . This makes it more likely that you will break your bones even with a minor fall. Raloxifene works by strengthening your bones and reducing the risk of fractures.
2. To reduce the risk of breast cancer: This medicine is also given to women who have osteoporosis or who have been diagnosed by doctors as having a high risk of developing breast cancer to reduce that risk. It works by blocking the effect of the hormone estrogen on breast tissue. This is because estrogen helps some breast cancer cells grow.
The most important thing is that this medicine should only be used on the advice of a doctor.
Things you should tell your doctor before taking medication
Before starting raloxifene, it is important to give your doctor a complete history of your health. You should especially tell them if you have any of the conditions listed below.
| Do you have these conditions? | Why is it important to inform about it? |
|---|---|
| Having had blood clots in the past. | Raloxifene may slightly increase the risk of blood clots. |
| Having had heart disease, a heart attack, or a stroke. | This medicine may not be suitable for people with a history of this condition. |
| High blood fat levels (Triglycerides). | This medication can further increase triglyceride levels. |
| Kidney or liver disease. | This can affect the process of eliminating the drug from the body. |
| If you smoke. | Smoking further increases the risk of blood clots and stroke. |
| If you are not yet menopausal (Premenopausal). | This medication is only recommended for postmenopausal women. |
| If you are trying to get pregnant, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding. | The use of this medicine is strictly prohibited in these cases. |
| If you have allergies to other medicines, foods or substances. | Be aware of the possibility of an allergy to the drug. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
The most important thing is to follow the doctor's instructions.
- Take this pill with a glass of water.
- You can take it anytime, before or after meals. But it's best to get into the habit of taking it at the same time every day . That way, you won't forget.
- Do not drink more than the amount prescribed by the doctor.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two pills at once to make up for a forgotten dose.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, don't panic. But you should take immediate action. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Things to be especially careful about when taking medication
- Calcium and Vitamin D: These two nutrients are important for bone strength. Talk to your doctor about whether you are getting enough calcium and vitamin D from your diet while you are taking this medicine. If necessary, he or she may prescribe separate tablets for these.
- Exercise: Walking and light exercise can help keep your bones strong. Ask your doctor what exercises are right for you.
- Surgery: If you are scheduled to have any surgery, it is important to let your medical team know that you are taking Raloxifene. It is usually advised to stop taking this medication at least 3 days before surgery and to restart it once you are able to walk well.
- Smoking: Smoking while taking this medicine can increase your risk of blood clots and stroke. Therefore, it is best for your health to avoid smoking altogether.
- Hot flashes: Some people may experience a burning sensation when they first start taking this medication. This usually subsides over time.
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, Raloxifene can cause side effects. Not everyone gets them. But it is important to be aware of these symptoms.
| Serious side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic Reaction | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms of a Blood Clot | Pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in a leg (especially the calf), difficulty breathing, sudden chest pain. |
| Symptoms of Stroke | Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg (often on one side), difficulty speaking, slurring of words, sudden severe headache, difficulty walking, loss of balance. |
| Other serious symptoms | Vaginal bleeding and lower abdominal pain after menopause. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Hot flashes | Joint pain, muscle twitching, or soreness |
| Sweating | Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
Take-Home Message
- Raloxifene is a medication used to treat and prevent osteoporosis after menopause and to reduce the risk of breast cancer in women at high risk.
- Before starting this medication, you should tell your doctor your complete medical history (especially blood clots, heart disease, and stroke).
- If you experience symptoms of a blood clot or stroke, such as leg pain and swelling, difficulty breathing, or difficulty speaking, while taking the medication, seek medical advice immediately.
- Avoid smoking, as it increases the risk of serious side effects.
- Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without your doctor's advice. Talk to him or her if you have any problems.
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