Raloxifene Treatment for Breast Cancer Recurrence

Raloxifene is a prescription medication given to post-menopausal women who are at risk for breast cancer. Often, doctors prescribe raloxifene for women who are breast cancer survivors in order to prevent a recurrence of cancer.

Background

Breast cancer occurs when the DNA in breast cells mutates, causing it to grow uncontrollably. The growth of many breast cancer tumors is aided by the presence of estrogen.

Function

Raloxifene works by suppressing estrogen levels within your breast tissue, inhibiting the growth of tumors that are dependent on the hormones.

Dosage

Doctors typically prescribe one 60mg tablet of raloxifene each day.

Risks

The most common side effects of raloxifene are hot flashes, changes in vaginal discharge, joint or muscle pain, depression, gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea or constipation, insomnia and weight gain, reports the Mayo Clinic. Serious risks associated with use of raloxifene include blood clots, heart attack and stroke, cautions RxList.

Considerations

If you have a history of blood clots, congestive heart failure, arrhythmia, hypertension, stroke, transient ischemic attacks or disease that affects your kidneys or liver, it may not be safe for you to take raloxifene due to its side effects, reports the Mayo Clinic.

References

• RxList: Raloxifene
• Mayo Clinic: Raloxifene
• American Cancer Society: Raloxifene