What it means
A selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM): it acts like estrogen in bone, keeping it strong, but blocks estrogen in the breast and uterus. It is used after menopauseMEN-uh-pawzThe time in a woman's life when menstrual periods stop for good, counted once there has been no period for 12 months in a row.men/o month, menstruation-pause stopFull entry for osteoporosisos-tee-oh-puh-ROH-sisA condition in which bones lose density and become thin, weak and easy to break.oste/o bonepor/o pore, small opening-osis abnormal conditionFull entry and to lower the risk of invasive breast cancer. It raises the risk of blood clots and of death from stroke in some women, and can cause hot flashes and leg cramps.
For the nurse
Ask about any history of blood clots. Teach the client to report leg pain or swelling, chest pain or sudden shortness of breath, to stop it 72 hours before long periods of not moving (such as surgery), and to take calcium and vitamin D as ordered.
At a glance
| Drug class | selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Evista |
| Also written | Evista |
Related terms
deep vein thrombosis
A blood clot in a deep vein, most often in the leg or pelvis.
osteoporosis
A condition in which bones lose density and become thin, weak and easy to break.
menopause
The time in a woman's life when menstrual periods stop for good, counted once there has been no period for 12 months in a row.
estrogen
A female sex hormone, made mainly by the ovaries, and the group of drugs that act like it.
tamoxifen
An oral drug that blocks estrogen in breast tissue, used to treat and prevent breast cancer.