Before taking evista, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, or if you have any other allergies. This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: active or past history of blood clots (e.g., deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, retinal vein thrombosis). Lack of movement may increase the risk for blood clots. Your doctor will instruct you to stop taking this medication at least 3 days before surgery or during long periods of inactivity (e.g., bedrest). Do not start taking evista until you are routinely and actively moving again. During long periods of travel, walk or move periodically to keep the blood flowing through your body. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, congestive heart failure, cancer, high blood cholesterol levels, history of high blood fat (triglyceride) levels due to estrogen treatment. This medication must not be used during pregnancy because it may cause fetal harm. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding while using this medication is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Safety information

Hot flashes, sweating, or leg cramps may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Evista may infrequently cause serious blood clots to form in the legs, lungs, or eyes. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: leg swelling/pain, trouble breathing, chest pain, vision changes. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Do not share this medication with others. Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. You should have a complete physical examination, breast and pelvic examination, and PAP test (for vaginal cancer) at least once a year. You should also have periodic mammograms as determined by your doctor. Follow your doctor's instructions for examining your own breasts. Report any unusual vaginal bleeding, breast pain, or lumps immediately. Lifestyle changes that help promote healthy bones include increasing weight-bearing exercise, eating well-balanced meals that contain adequate calcium and vitamin D, stopping smoking, and limiting alcohol. Consult your doctor about lifestyle changes that might benefit you. Laboratory and/or medical tests (bone density tests, x-rays, height measurement, blood mineral levels) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.