Evista is a newly approved drug used for the prevention of osteoporosis in post-menopausal women. It is classified as a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM). This means that it produces its effects by binding to estrogen receptors thereby inducing an estrogen-like response in certain parts of the body. Evista has been shown to reduce the body's resorption of bone, and thus decrease the overall bone turnover. In addition, Evista has been shown to decrease total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, otherwise known as "bad" cholesterol. No effects have been observed on levels of triglycerides and HDL cholesterol.

Evista Prevents Osteoporosis

Evista is for women after menopause who want to protect themselves from getting osteoporosis. Evista helps prevent osteoporosis by building bone and stopping the thinning of bone.

Evista Treats Osteoporosis

Evista is also for women who have already been diagnosed with osteoporosis. It treats osteoporosis by helping make bones stronger and less likely to break. By increasing bone mass and strengthening your bones, Evista can reduce the risk of fracture, which can rob you of your independence and mobility.

Other Features About Evista

While Preventing and Treating Osteoporosis, Evista has other features:

• lowers total cholesterol by about 7% and LDL ("bad") cholesterol by about 11%. It does not change HDL ("good") cholesterol.
• No Increased Risk of Breast Cancer. In clinical studies, women taking Evista had no increased risk of breast cancer.
• Evista is easy to take. Just one tablet, once a day, at any time, with or without food.

What are the Side Effects of Evista?

Side Effects that may occur while taking this medicine include hot flashes or leg cramps. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience swelling of hands, feet, or legs; breast pain or enlargement; unusual weight gain; or abnormal vaginal bleeding or spotting.

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience pain in your calves, leg swelling, sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or changes in vision. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Before using Evista

Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Use of this medicine is not recommended if you have a history of blood clots. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.

Additional Information

Being immobile for long periods of time while taking this medicine may increase your risk of blood clots. During long periods of travel, get up and move around as often as possible.

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed.