Description

Cyproterone Acetate is a synthetic steroid with potent anti-androgen and progestogenic properties. It is a derivative of progestin and acts as a competitive androgen receptor antagonist.

Indications

Cyproterone Acetate is primarily indicated for the treatment of conditions in women that are dependent on male hormones (androgens). These conditions include:

• Severe hirsutism (excessive hair growth)

• Severe acne and seborrhea

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

• in men, it is used to reduce sex drive in cases of sexual deviation and for the palliative treatment of prostate cancer.

Mechanism of Action

Cyproterone Acetate works in two main ways:

1. Anti-androgen Effect: It directly blocks androgen receptors in target cells. By competing with natural androgens like testosterone for these receptors, it prevents androgens from exerting their effects on the body. This is how it helps reduce hair growth, acne, and other androgen-dependent symptoms.
2. Progestogenic Effect: It also has a progestogenic effect, similar to natural progesterone. This action suppresses the release of gonadotropins from the pituitary gland, which in turn reduces the production of androgens in the ovaries and adrenal glands. This dual action makes it highly effective in counteracting the effects of excess androgens in the body.