SERM
Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) are a class of drugs that act on the estrogen receptor. A characteristic that distinguishes these substances from pure receptor agonists and antagonists is that their action is different in various tissues, thereby granting the possibility to selectively inhibit or stimulate estrogen-like action in various tissues.
History[edit | edit source]
The concept of SERMs was first noted in the early 1960s, when compounds such as clomifene and tamoxifen were being developed. These drugs were initially classified as anti-estrogens, but with further research, it was discovered that they also had estrogenic effects in some tissues, leading to the term "Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators".
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
SERMs function by binding to the estrogen receptor. Once bound, they can either block or activate the receptor's function, depending on the tissue. This selective action allows SERMs to have beneficial effects in certain tissues, such as the bones and cardiovascular system, while blocking the potentially harmful effects of estrogen in other tissues, such as the breast and uterus.
Clinical Uses[edit | edit source]
SERMs have a wide range of clinical uses. They are commonly used in the treatment of breast cancer, osteoporosis, and infertility. In breast cancer, SERMs such as tamoxifen can block the effects of estrogen, which can fuel the growth of certain types of breast cancer. In osteoporosis, SERMs can mimic the beneficial effects of estrogen on bone density. In infertility, SERMs can stimulate ovulation.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Like all medications, SERMs can have side effects. These can include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and an increased risk of blood clots. The risk of side effects can vary depending on the specific SERM used and the individual patient's health status.
Future Research[edit | edit source]
Research into SERMs is ongoing, with the aim of developing new drugs with improved selectivity and fewer side effects. This could potentially expand the range of conditions that can be treated with SERMs.
This article is a endocrinology stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
