What is a SERM?
Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) are used to treat estrogen-related diseases like osteoporosis and breast cancer. They can block or activate estrogen. The word “selective” in their name means they can target different estrogen receptors in the body, such as in the breast, uterus, and bones. Once they reach their target, they selectively block or activate estrogen.
Not much is understood about the selective nature of selective estrogen receptor modulators or how they decide whether to block or activate estrogen.
For instance, in the case of breast cancer, selective estrogen receptor modulators will block estrogen by attaching to the estrogen receptors in breast tissue. This takes up the space reserved for estrogen and blocks the message to your brain to send more estrogen to the breast. This, in turn, stops the cancerous growth from increasing and reproducing.
Selective estrogen receptor modulators are also used to treat osteoporosis. When used in this case, SERM drugs target the bones and activate estrogen receptors. For people with osteoporosis, a selective estrogen receptor modulator can help restore bone mineral density and reduce their risk of fractures.
Even though the structure of estrogen is different in different parts of your body, selective estrogen receptor modulators are able to identify and adapt to each situation. Estrogen receptors in your uterus are different from the ones in your bones, but SERMs are still able to find and interact with them. In the uterus, a selective estrogen receptor modulator can bind with the estrogen cells and activate more production. This can help alleviate symptoms of menopause.
Selective estrogen receptor modulators are highly adaptable and work for many different estrogen-related diseases. Raloxifene and tamoxifen are two commonly prescribed SERM drugs.