Related Experiment Videos
Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) for uterine leiomyomas
Linyu Deng1, Taixiang Wu, Xiao Y Chen
1National Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|October 19, 2012
Summary
Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) show inconsistent results for treating uterine fibroids. Limited evidence suggests they may not consistently reduce fibroid size or improve outcomes, necessitating further research.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
Background:
- Uterine fibroids are benign smooth muscle tumors of the uterus.
- Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) have a controversial history in fibroid treatment.
- SERMs act as estrogen receptor ligands, modulating estrogen activity differently across tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of SERMs for treating uterine fibroids.
- To synthesize evidence from randomized controlled trials on SERM efficacy.
- To identify gaps in current research regarding SERM use in women with fibroids.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search across multiple databases (Cochrane, PubMed, EMBASE, etc.) up to April 2012.
- Inclusion of randomized controlled studies comparing SERMs to placebo or other medical therapies.
- Independent data extraction and quality assessment by two reviewers; narrative synthesis due to study heterogeneity.
Main Results:
- Three studies with 215 participants were included, all using raloxifene as the SERM.
- Two studies indicated significant benefits of raloxifene, while one found no benefit at 3 or 6 months.
- Evidence quality was low to very low; adverse event data were limited.
Conclusions:
- Current limited evidence does not consistently support SERMs for reducing uterine fibroid size or improving clinical outcomes.
- Further high-quality research is required to establish the efficacy of SERMs in managing uterine fibroids.
- This review did not identify new studies for inclusion in the updated analysis.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Serotonin Receptor Agonists
Serotonin, a crucial neurotransmitter synthesized by enterochromaffin cells, plays a cardinal role in regulating gastrointestinal (GI) motility. With over 90% of the body's total serotonin in the GI tract, its influence on digestive processes is profound. Serotonin is swiftly released upon various stimuli, such as food boluses or certain drugs, triggering intrinsic sensory neurons in the myenteric plexus and extrinsic vagal and spinal sensory neurons. This leads to the activation of the...
01:15Anthelminthic Agents
Anthelmintic drugs differ significantly from antiparasitic therapies targeting protozoa, primarily due to differences in parasite biology. Whereas most protozoal treatments act on proliferating cells, anthelmintics are typically directed against mature, nonproliferative helminths. The therapeutic approach considers the helminth's reliance on neuromuscular coordination, glucose metabolism, and microtubular integrity for survival, reproduction, and localization within the host. Most anthelmintics...
01:31Transducer Mechanism: Nuclear Receptors
Nuclear receptors, or NRs, are unique transcription factors that regulate gene transcription and affect the cellular pathways involved in reproduction, development, or metabolism. Their ability to be stimulated by small lipophilic ligands and control vital cellular processes makes them ideal drug targets. Nearly 10-15% of currently prescribed drugs target these receptors.
About 48 different soluble family members of nuclear receptors are identified that can be divided into two main classes:
About 48 different soluble family members of nuclear receptors are identified that can be divided into two main classes:
01:18Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Endothelin Receptor Antagonists
Endothelins (ETs) are potent vasoactive peptides critical in the human body's various physiological and pathological processes. One of the most promising therapeutic strategies for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) involves counteracting the effects of these endothelins using a class of drugs known as endothelin receptor antagonists.
ETs are synthesized through a complex sequence of enzymatic steps, primarily involving an enzyme referred to as endothelin-converting enzyme (ECE). Of...
ETs are synthesized through a complex sequence of enzymatic steps, primarily involving an enzyme referred to as endothelin-converting enzyme (ECE). Of...