List of steroidal antiandrogens

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Steroidal antiandrogens are a class of medications used in the management of conditions related to the effect of androgens or male hormones. These include conditions like prostate cancer, hirsutism (excessive hair growth in women), and acne. Steroidal antiandrogens work by blocking the effects of androgens at their receptor sites or by inhibiting the production of androgens. This article provides a list of steroidal antiandrogens, highlighting their uses, mechanisms of action, and other relevant details.

List of Steroidal Antiandrogens[edit | edit source]

Cyproterone Acetate[edit | edit source]

Cyproterone acetate is a medication that acts as a potent antiandrogen and progestin. It is primarily used in the treatment of prostate cancer, severe acne, and is also used in hormone therapy for transgender women.

Spironolactone[edit | edit source]

Spironolactone is a medication that has both antiandrogen and potassium-sparing diuretic properties. It is commonly used in the treatment of hirsutism, heart failure, hypertension, and fluid retention.

Chlormadinone Acetate[edit | edit source]

Chlormadinone acetate is a synthetic progestin with antiandrogen properties. It is used in the treatment of androgen-dependent conditions such as acne, excessive hair growth, and in some forms of birth control.

Meglumine Antimoniate[edit | edit source]

Meglumine antimoniate is primarily used in the treatment of leishmaniasis, but it also has antiandrogen properties that may make it useful in the treatment of androgen-dependent conditions.

Abiraterone Acetate[edit | edit source]

Abiraterone acetate is a medication used in the treatment of prostate cancer. It works by inhibiting an enzyme involved in the production of androgens, thereby reducing the levels of male hormones in the body.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Steroidal antiandrogens work through various mechanisms. Some, like cyproterone acetate, directly block the androgen receptor, preventing androgens from exerting their effects. Others, such as abiraterone acetate, inhibit enzymes involved in the synthesis of androgens, thereby reducing their production.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Steroidal antiandrogens are used in the management of several conditions, including:

  • Prostate cancer
  • Hirsutism
  • Acne
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Hormone therapy for transgender women

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

The use of steroidal antiandrogens can lead to a range of side effects, depending on the specific medication and the condition being treated. Common side effects include gynecomastia (enlargement of male breasts), fatigue, liver dysfunction, and changes in electrolyte levels.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Steroidal antiandrogens play a crucial role in the management of androgen-dependent conditions. Their ability to block the effects of male hormones or reduce their production makes them valuable in the treatment of conditions ranging from prostate cancer to hirsutism. As with any medication, the benefits of steroidal antiandrogens must be weighed against their potential side effects.

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD