Which patient group is Evista primarily indicated for?

Evista, the brand name for raloxifene, is primarily indicated for postmenopausal women, specifically those at risk of osteoporosis. This medication works as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), which helps to maintain bone density and reduce the risk of vertebral fractures in this population. Postmenopausal women experience a significant decrease in estrogen levels, which is a critical factor in bone health; thus, Evista's mechanism of action directly addresses the associated risk of osteoporosis.

The other groups mentioned do not have a primary indication for Evista. Men with high blood pressure do not benefit from this medication, as it targets bone health rather than cardiovascular conditions. Children, particularly those with infections, require treatments specific to their needs, such as antibiotics, but Evista does not serve this purpose. Older adults experiencing chronic pain may benefit from a variety of pain management medications, but Evista is not designed to address chronic pain or its underlying causes. Evista’s specific clinical focus on postmenopausal osteoporosis highlights its importance in the treatment of this particular patient population.