Raloxos (Raloxifene) 30 mg 100 tabs

Description

Raloxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that is sometimes used by bodybuilders and athletes to help reduce the negative effects of estrogen in the body, such as gynecomastia (the development of breast tissue in men) and water retention. In bodybuilding, raloxifene is sometimes used during or after a cycle of anabolic steroids to counteract the negative effects of increased estrogen levels. Anabolic steroids can increase the levels of both testosterone and estrogen in the body, and this can lead to estrogen-related side effects, such as gynecomastia. Raloxifene is believed to work by blocking the effects of estrogen in certain tissues, such as breast tissue, while allowing estrogen to have a positive effect on other tissues, such as bone tissue. This can help to reduce the risk of gynecomastia and other estrogen-related side effects.

Use in medicine

Estrogen replacement therapy is considered a first-line approach for the prevention and treatment of numerous conditions affecting women's health. It is widely recommended for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, reducing the risk of mortality from cardiovascular diseases, improving the lipid profile, reducing the signs and symptoms of menopause and possible protection against the development of Alzheimer's disease.1-3 

Raloxifene has both an estrogen-agonistic effect on bone and lipid metabolism, and an estrogen-antagonistic effect on the endometrium of the uterus and breast tissue. Due to its tissue selectivity, raloxifene may have fewer side effects than is usually observed with estrogen therapy.The most common side effects of raloxifene are hot flashes and leg cramps. The use of the drug is also associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic complications.

Benefits 

The beneficial estrogen properties of raloxifene include a decrease in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and an increase in bone mineral density. Raloxifene has been labeled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the prevention of osteoporosis.

Raloxifene vs Tamoxifen

Raloxifene and tamoxifen are both selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) that are used to treat and prevent certain types of breast cancer, as well as to prevent osteoporosis and reducing the negative effects of estrogens in bodybuilding. 

However, there are some differences between the two drugs: 

1. While both drugs are SERMs, they have different mechanisms of action. Tamoxifen works by binding to estrogen receptors in certain tissues, such as breast tissue, and blocking the effects of estrogen. Raloxifene also binds to estrogen receptors, but it has a tissue-specific effect, blocking estrogen in some tissues while allowing it to have a positive effect on others.
2. Tamoxifen is generally less expensive than raloxifene, although the cost can vary depending on factors such as dosage and insurance coverage.

In summary, while both drugs are SERMs and have some similar uses, they have different mechanisms of action, uses, and potential side effects, and the choice of which drug to use depends on individual circumstances and medical history.

Effects on Bone

Raloxifene works by binding to estrogen receptors in the body, which can stimulate the formation of new bone and slow down the breakdown of existing bone. It is specifically used to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, as the loss of estrogen after menopause can lead to a decrease in bone density and an increased risk of fractures.

The MORE trial, which involved over 7,700 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, found that raloxifene reduced the risk of vertebral fractures by 30-50% compared to placebo. Another large clinical trial known as the Raloxifene Use for The Heart (RUTH) trial found that raloxifene did not increase the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, which had been a concern with other medications used for osteoporosis.

In addition to reducing the risk of fractures, raloxifene has also been shown to increase bone mineral density (BMD) in the hip and spine. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that postmenopausal women with osteoporosis who took raloxifene for three years had a 2.6% increase in hip BMD and a 2.4% increase in spine BMD compared to placebo.

While raloxifene has been shown to be effective in preventing and treating osteoporosis, it is important to note that it may not be suitable for everyone. It should not be taken by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, those with a history of blood clots or stroke, or those with liver disease. As with any medication, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine if raloxifene is right for you.

Effects on Lipids

Raloxifene has been shown to have some effects on lipids, which are fats that are found in the bloodstream. Specifically, raloxifene has been shown to have a positive effect on the levels of cholesterol in the blood.

Studies have shown that raloxifene can decrease levels of LDL cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol, which is a major risk factor for heart disease. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that raloxifene reduced LDL cholesterol levels by 14% in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. Another study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that raloxifene reduced LDL cholesterol levels by 9.9% in postmenopausal women who were at increased risk for heart disease.

In addition to reducing LDL cholesterol levels, raloxifene has also been shown to increase levels of HDL cholesterol, also known as "good" cholesterol, which can help to protect against heart disease. A study published in the Journal of Women's Health found that raloxifene increased HDL cholesterol levels by 14.9% in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.

Overall, raloxifene appears to have a positive effect on lipid levels in postmenopausal women. However, it is important to note that raloxifene is not a first-line treatment for high cholesterol or heart disease, and should only be taken for these conditions under the guidance of a healthcare professional.