Osteonecrosis (bone death) of the jaw is a rare side effect that has occurred mainly in patients with cancer who received intravenous bisphosphonates. Many of these patients had major dental procedures before developing osteonecrosis. However, this bone decay condition has also been reported in some patients who have taken oral bisphosphonates (mainly alendronate). Symptoms may include jaw pain or swelling, gum infections, and poor healing of the gums. Talk to your doctor or dentist if you experience any jaw or gum discomfort while taking a bisphosphonate drug.
SERMs
Raloxifene (Evista) belongs to a class of drugs called selective estrogen-receptor modulators (SERMs). These drugs are similar, but not identical, to estrogen. Raloxifene provides the bone benefits of estrogen without increasing the risks for estrogen-related breast and uterine cancers. In fact, doctors are studying how raloxifene may help prevent breast cancer in women who are at high-risk for this disease.
While there are many SERM drugs, raloxifene is the only SERM approved for treatment and prevention of osteoporosis. It should only be taken by postmenopausal women who have or are at risk for osteoporosis. Studies indicate that raloxifene can stop the thinning of bone and help build better quality and stronger bone.
Side Effects. Raloxifene increases the risk for blood clots in the veins. Because of this side effect, raloxifene also increases the risk for stroke (but not other types of heart disease). These side effects are rare, but very serious. Women should not take this drug if they have a history of blood clots, or have certain risk factors for stroke and heart disease. More common mild side effects include hot flashes and leg cramps.
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