Key takeaways
Forteo (teriparatide) and Evista (raloxifene) are both used to treat osteoporosis, but they work in different ways and have different uses. Forteo is a parathyroid hormone analog that you inject once a day, and it helps build bone by mimicking the hormone your body naturally makes. It's available as a brand and generic medication and is typically used for people at very high risk of fractures. On the other hand, Evista is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that you take as a daily pill. It acts like estrogen in your bones to prevent bone breakdown and also helps lower the risk of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Evista is also available in generic form. While Forteo can only be used for up to 2 years due to potential cancer risks, Evista can be taken long-term as long as it continues to be effective. Forteo's common side effects include body pain and dizziness, whereas Evista can cause hot flashes and an increased risk of blood clots.
