Pharmacology of Antiandrogens

The 1986 document details the pharmacology of antiandrogens, highlighting their impact on androgen-dependent organs and functions, and differentiating between steroidal and nonsteroidal types. Cyproterone acetate, a steroidal antiandrogen, is noted for its antiandrogenic, progestogenic, and antigonadotrophic properties, and is used to treat skin disorders, prostatic carcinoma, precocious puberty, and hypersexuality. Topical application of antiandrogens has generally failed, but 17α-propylmesterolone shows promise without systemic effects. The document also discusses the risks associated with antiandrogens, including the potential for feminizing a male fetus and adrenal suppression, though the latter is not considered a serious problem in adults. It reports that 17 normal boys were born to mothers who took low-dose cyproterone acetate during pregnancy, indicating minimal risk of feminization at low doses. Topically active antiandrogens are being developed, with 17α-propylmesterolone showing no systemic effects and potential benefits for acne treatment, but systemic antiandrogenic effects might still be necessary for full therapeutic efficacy.