cyproterone acetate
Cyproterone acetate blocks androgens, the male hormones that also circulate in women. That makes it useful in conditions driven by those hormones, from severe acne to prostate cancer, and it is prescribed only under medical supervision.
What Cyproterone Acetate Is Used For
- Severe acne and excess facial or body hair in women
- Combined with an oestrogen in some contraceptive pills
- Advanced prostate cancer
- Selected hormone related conditions on specialist advice
Common Side Effects
- Tiredness and low mood
- Weight change and fluid retention
- Breast tenderness or enlargement in men
- Reduced sex drive
Precautions
Liver function is monitored, and any yellowing of the eyes, dark urine or persistent abdominal pain must be reported immediately. It raises the risk of blood clots, so tell your doctor about smoking, migraine, previous clots or a long period of immobility. It must not be used in pregnancy, and effective contraception is needed for women of childbearing age.
This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.
