Raloxifene Cuts Risk of Certain Type of Breast Cancer

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The new analysis looked more specifically at raloxifene's effect on breast cancer and found a 55 percent lower incidence of invasive ER-positive tumors, but no effect on noninvasive breast cancer or invasive ER-negative breast cancer.

According to the study authors, these findings are consistent with results from other trials involving women without heart disease. This trial and others found an increased risk of blood clots and fatal strokes among women taking raloxifene, indicating that women need to weigh the risks and benefits of the drug.

Another question is how long to take raloxifene for breast cancer prevention, although the authors speculated that up to eight years might be safe and effective.

"We're learning more about this class of drugs, what works and what doesn't work," Jordan said. "[Raloxifene] is good for osteoporosis, no good for coronary heart disease, but breast cancer is inhibited."

More information

The U.S. National Cancer Institute has more on SERMs and how they work.