What is the role of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs)?

• A. They increase estrogen production
• B. Used for osteoporosis prevention and breast cancer risk reduction.
• C. They cure osteoporosis
• D. They cause breast cancer

Answer: (B)

SERMs are drugs that selectively activate or block estrogen receptors in different tissues. In bone, they act like estrogen, helping to maintain bone density and reduce fracture risk. In breast tissue, they block estrogen’s effects, which lowers the risk of estrogen-driven breast cancers. This tissue-specific action is why their role includes both osteoporosis prevention and breast cancer risk reduction. They don’t stimulate estrogen production, they aren’t cures for osteoporosis, and they don’t cause breast cancer—in fact, they can lower breast cancer risk in many cases. (Be aware that individual SERMs have varying other risks, such as endometrial changes with some agents or thromboembolic events.)