Selective oestrogen 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 tissues. They were developed with the aim of maximizing the benefits of oestrogen-like drugs in a number of important conditions whilst reducing adverse side-effects. The molecular biology of oestrogen receptor signalling is discussed in relation to the pharmacological effects of this class of drugs. The results of clinical trial data with one member of this group (raloxifene) are documented and future developments outlined.