Use of Cyproterone Acetate in the Treatment of Acne, Hirsutism, and Virilism

In 1975, a study with 602 patients evaluated the effectiveness of cyproterone acetate (CPA) in treating acne, hirsutism, and alopecia. CPA, combined with ethinyl estradiol, showed an 87% success rate for acne and seborrhea, but was less effective for hirsutism and alopecia, with failure rates of 20-35% and 40-50%, respectively. Side effects included tiredness, weight gain, and loss of libido, with a 6.5% drop-out rate. The treatment also reduced urinary testosterone and 17-oxosteroids, indicating decreased androgen production. After treatment, menstrual cycles and fertility were rapidly restored, evidenced by 10 post-treatment pregnancies. The study concluded that CPA is effective for treating virilization symptoms, but suggested further research for more balanced treatments.