Cyproterone acetate

Cyproterone acetate (CPA), sold alone under the brand name Androcur or with ethinylestradiol (EE) as Diane or Diane-35 among others, is an antiandrogen and progestin medication which is used in the treatment of androgen-dependent conditions like acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), early-onset puberty, and prostate cancer, as a component of feminizing hormone therapy for transgender women, and in birth control pills. It is formulated and used both alone and in combination with an estrogen and is available for use both by mouth and by injection into muscle.

Medical uses

CPA is used in the treatment of prostate cancer, precocious puberty, and for seborrhoea, acne, and hirsutism in women. It is also used as a part of feminizing hormone therapy for transgender women and in some birth control pills.

Side effects

The side effects of CPA include sexual dysfunction and gynaecomastia in men. Less common side effects include fatigue, depression, and liver disease.

Pharmacology

CPA works by blocking and reducing the production of the androgen testosterone in the body. It also has progestogen activity and can change the lining of the uterus which can prevent endometrial hyperplasia and can help to prevent endometrial cancer.

History

CPA was first synthesized in 1961 by the German pharmaceutical company Schering AG and has been used medically since 1964.

Society and culture

CPA is marketed widely throughout the world. It is available as a generic medication.

See also

• List of androgens/anabolic steroids
• List of progestogens
• List of steroidal antiandrogens

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