Cyproterone Acetate
Cyproterone Acetate Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Cyproterone Acetate is a brand name. Its generic name is Cyproterone acetate.
Cyproterone Acetate Introduction
Cyproterone Acetate (also known as Androcur or Cyprostat) is a therapeutic drug used to treat prostate cancer, hirsutism, menopausal symptoms, and other medical conditions. It is a steroidal synthetic progestin and antiandrogen, and is an analog of 17α-hydroxyprogesterone. Cyproterone Acetate is used In combination with an estrogen, it has long been used to treat hirsutism in women, and as a second-line treatment for prostate cancer.
Uses For
Cyproterone Acetate has been used for several purposes including:
- To treat hypersexuality in men and women
- To treat enlarged prostates and reduce prostate cancer risk by blocking androgen receptors
- To treat male pattern baldness, androgenetic alopecia
- To treat hirsutism in women
- To treat menopausal symptoms and reduce the risk of endometrial cancer
- To treat acne
- To reduce the activity of the sebaceous glands
Mechanism of Action
Cyproterone Acetate acts by blocking androgen receptors, which is why it is useful in treating certain androgen-dependent conditions. It also exerts a progesterone like action, thereby displaying anti-androgenic and anti-estrogenic activity.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
Cyproterone Acetate typically takes a few days before the effects become apparent. The duration of time it takes before the effects of the drug become noticeable may vary depending on the condition being treated.
Absorption
Cyproterone Acetate is rapidly absorbed in the body and is metabolized by the liver.
Route of Elimination
Cyproterone Acetate undergoes hepatic metabolism and is excreted in the feces (58%) and urine (41%)
Dosage
The dose of cyproterone acetate is tailored to the individual's needs.
- For androgen related disorders: 10-50mg orally per day in divided doses.
- For hirsutism: 50-100mg orally per day in divided doses.
- For prostate cancer: 100-200mg orally per day in divided doses.
Administration
Cyproterone Acetate is usually taken orally. It can also be administered as an injection depending on the condition.
Side Effect
Common side effects of cyproterone acetate include:
- Weight gain
- Hot flashes
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Acne
- Depression
Toxicity
Cyproterone Acetate can be toxic if taken in large doses for long periods of time. It should be used only as directed by a doctor. Overdose is unlikely, but severe side effects can occur.
Precaution
Before taking cyproterone acetate, tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and any herbal remedies. Some medications and herbal remedies may interact with cyproterone acetate and increase the risk of side effects. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider of any allergies you may have. Inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, such as liver or kidney problems.
Interaction
Cyproterone Acetate may interact with certain medications, supplements, and herbal remedies. Some of these include estrogen (estradiol), ranitidine, loratadine, and prednisone. Be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies.
Disease Interaction
Cyproterone Acetate may interact with certain diseases or conditions and should be used with caution in people with the following conditions: kidney or liver problems, anxiety or depression, stroke or history of stroke, heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, blood clots, or abnormal bleeding.
Drug Interaction
Cyproterone Acetate may interact with other drugs. Drugs that may interact with cyproterone acetate include:
- Cyclosporine
- Clofibrate
- Antidepressants such as tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors
- Antidiabetic drugs
- Anticoagulants such as warfarin
- St. John's Wort
Food Interactions
Some foods may interact with cyproterone acetate and increase the risk of side effects. Examples of foods that may interact with cyproterone acetate include alcohol, grapefruit juice, and high-fat foods. Be sure to follow all diet instructions given by your doctor or healthcare provider.
Pregnancy Use
Cyproterone Acetate is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It has the potential to cause harm to a unborn baby and is not recommended. Women should inform their doctors if they are pregnant or trying to become pregnant before taking the drug.
Lactation Use
Cyproterone Acetate is not recommended for use while breastfeeding. It has the potential to pass into breast milk and cause harm to a nursing baby. Women should inform their doctors if they are breastfeeding before taking the drug.
Acute Overdose
An acute overdose is possible with cyproterone acetate. Signs and symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, confusion, fainting, difficulty breathing, and/or seizures. If an overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Contraindication
Cyproterone Acetate is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the formulation. In addition, cyproterone acetate should not be used in individuals with a history of adrenal suppression or liver problems.
Use Direction
Cyproterone Acetate should be taken as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is important to follow the dose instructions closely and not exceed the recommended dose. In addition, the drug should be taken at the same time each day.
Storage Condition
Cyproterone Acetate should be stored at 20°C-25°C (68°F-77°F) and protected from light.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of cyproterone acetate is 0.2 L/kg.
Half Life
The half-life of cyproterone acetate is approximately 16-18 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of cyproterone acetate is approximately 3-5 mL/min/kg.
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