antiandrogenisiä

Antiandrogens are a class of drugs that block the effects of androgens, which are male sex hormones like testosterone. They work by preventing androgens from binding to their receptors in the body. This can reduce the production of androgens or interfere with their action. Antiandrogens are used in various medical conditions, including prostate cancer, hirsutism (excessive hair growth in women), precocious puberty, and gender-affirming hormone therapy for transgender women.

There are different types of antiandrogens. Some are steroidal and directly inhibit the production of androgens, while others are non-steroidal and act as androgen receptor antagonists. The specific type of antiandrogen used depends on the medical condition being treated and the desired effect. For instance, in prostate cancer, antiandrogens are used to slow the growth of tumors that rely on androgens to proliferate. In transgender women, they are used to suppress masculine secondary sex characteristics and facilitate the development of feminine ones.

Common side effects of antiandrogens can include hot flashes, fatigue, decreased libido, and erectile dysfunction in individuals assigned male at birth. Women may experience menstrual irregularities. The use of antiandrogens requires careful medical supervision due to potential side effects and interactions with other medications. The effectiveness and safety profile of antiandrogens vary depending on the specific drug and the individual patient. Research continues to explore new antiandrogen therapies with improved efficacy and reduced side effects.