Cyproterone acetate is a medication used to treat prostate cancer, severe cases of acne, hirsutism, and androgen-dependent conditions in women such as androgenic alopecia and hyperandrogenism. It is a synthetic steroidal antiandrogen and progestin which is taken by mouth or applied to the skin. It works by blocking the effects of androgens in the body and by inhibiting the production of androgens.
Cyproterone acetate, also known by the brand names Androcur or Diane, is a medication used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- Acne: It is used in combination with an estrogen, such as ethinylestradiol, to treat severe acne in women.
- Hirsutism: This is excessive hair growth in women in areas where men typically grow hair, such as the face, chest, and back. Cyproterone acetate is used to treat this condition by blocking the effects of androgens, which are hormones that can stimulate hair growth.
- Prostate cancer: It is used to treat advanced prostate cancer in men who are unable to have surgery or other treatments.
- Gender dysphoria: It is sometimes used as part of feminizing hormone therapy for transgender women.
- Sex drive reduction: In some countries, it is also used to reduce sex drive in men with paraphilias or hypersexuality.
Cyproterone acetate is a synthetic steroid that works in a number of ways. It is an antiandrogen, which means that it blocks the effects of androgens in the body. It also has progestational activity, which means that it has some of the same effects as the female hormone progesterone.
Cyproterone acetate is available in tablet form and is taken by mouth. The dosage will vary depending on the condition being treated. It is important to take cyproterone acetate exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Cyproterone acetate can cause a number of side effects, including irregular bleeding, breast tenderness, mood swings, and decreased libido. It is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking cyproterone acetate before starting treatment.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about cyproterone acetate:
- It is not safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- It can interact with other medications, so it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting cyproterone acetate.
- It can take several weeks or months to see the full effects of cyproterone acetate.