SERM
Medical abbreviation · Drug Class
| Stands for | Selective estrogen receptor modulator |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
SERM stands for Selective estrogen receptor modulator, a drug class abbreviation.
Drugs that act like estrogen in some tissues and block it in others: tamoxifen and raloxifene for breast cancer treatment and prevention and osteoporosis, clomiphene for ovulation induction, and ospemifene for painful intercourse after menopause.
Example: Premenopausal ER-positive breast cancer: SERM tamoxifen 20 mg daily x 5-10 years.
Usage notes
Tamoxifen, approved in the US in 1977, blocks estrogen in breast tissue but stimulates the uterine lining, raising the risk of endometrial cancer and blood clots; it is activated by CYP2D6. Raloxifene lowers breast cancer risk without stimulating the uterus, as shown in the STAR trial. Bazedoxifene is combined with estrogens for menopause symptoms.
Related abbreviations
More drug class abbreviations
- SABA – Short-acting beta2-agonist
- SAMA – Short-acting muscarinic antagonist
- SARI – Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor
- SARMs – Selective androgen receptor modulators
- SCIT – Subcutaneous immunotherapy
- SERD – Selective estrogen receptor degrader
- SGA – Second-generation antipsychotic
- SGLT2i – Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor
- SLIT – Sublingual immunotherapy
- SMART – Single maintenance and reliever therapy
- SNRI – Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor
- SSRI – Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor
See all 113 drug class abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.