SELECTIVE ESTROGEN-RECEPTOR MODULATORS - A NEW PARADIGM FOR HRT

Selective oestrogen receptor modulators are a range of compounds which mimic some, but not all, agonist actions of oestrogen in different ti ssues. They were developed with the aim of maximizing the benefits of oestrogen-like drugs in a number of important conditions whilst reduci ng adverse side-effects. The molecular biology of oestrogen receptor s ignalling is discussed in relation to the pharmacological effects of t his class of drugs. The results of clinical trial data with one member of this group (raloxifene) are documented and future developments out lined. (C) 1998 Lippincott-Raven Publishers.