Indications
Androcur is a medication primarily used to treat advanced prostate cancer. It contains the active ingredient cyproterone acetate. Cyproterone belongs to a group of medications known as steroidal antiandrogens. It works by blocking the action of the male sex hormone testosterone, making it a steroidal anti-androgen.
Cyproterone acetate can be indicated for the treatment of hirsutism (excessive hair growth), androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness), and other conditions caused by excess androgen levels, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It is also sometimes used as a component of hormone replacement therapy for transgender women or to reduce the sex drive in men with sexual deviations.
Use and Dosage
Androcur (Cyproterone Acetate) is available in tablet form and is typically taken orally, usually once or twice daily. Take the tablet whole without crushing and chawing. Take the tablet after meals at about the same time each day. Taking it at the same time each day will have the best effect. It will also help you remember when to take it.
The recommended dosage and duration of treatment depend on the condition being treated and the patient's individual needs. The recommended dose is 200 mg to 300 mg (4 to 6 tablets) daily, divided into 2 to 3 doses and taken after meals. Men who have had an orchiectomy (testicle removal) should take a lower dose of 100 mg to 200 mg daily in divided doses.
Take an Androcur tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you are taking cyproterone tablets and you miss a dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Androcur (Cyproterone Acetate):
- Breast lumps
- Constipation
- Decreased fertility
- Decreased sexual interest or ability
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Frequent urination
- General feeling of being unwell
- Hair loss
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Hot flashes
- Impotence
- Nausea
- Reduced (or increased) sexual interest
- Skin bleeding, blistering, coldness, or discoloration
- Swelling of the breasts or breast soreness
- Tiredness or weakness
- Unusual increase in hair growth
- Vomiting
- Weight changes
Serious Side Effects of Androcur (Cyproterone Acetate):
- Back pain that increases when walking and standing
- Bleeding gums
- Blurred vision
- Breast milk production
- Blood in urine
- Changes in sleep
- Chills
- Constant headache
- Coordination difficulties
- Coughing up blood
- Dark urine
- Decreased interest in activities
- Difficulty breathing
- Dizziness
- Excessive eating
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Frequent urination
- Fruity breath odor
- Hearing or vision changes
- Increased thirst
- Lightheadedness
- Mood or personality changes
- Pain
- Pale skin
- Pale stools
- Poor concentration
- Poor wound healing
- Sharp chest pain that is worst when breathing in
- Shortness of breath
- Signs of anemia (low red blood cells)
- Skin rash
- Swelling of the arms, hands, feet, ankles, or face
- Tenderness
- Thin, brittle bones easily broken bones
- Thoughts of suicide
- Unexplained weight loss
- Unusual nosebleeds
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Vision changes
- Warmth, or redness in the arm or legs
- Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eye
Forms and Strength
Androcur (Cyproterone Acetate) is available in the following forms and strength:
Androcur: Tablet
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
Cyproterone Acetate: Scored Tablet
- 50 mg
Cautions
- Androcur may affect the effectiveness of oral contraceptives and caution should be taken in women using oral contraceptives while also taking Androcur.
- Androcur may cause a decrease in bone density and increases the risk of fractures, especially in elderly patients. Patients should be monitored regularly for bone density changes.
- Androcur may cause central nervous system side effects, such as dizziness or confusion, and caution should be taken in patients with a history of neurological disorders or those taking medication that can affect cognition.
- Androcur may cause certain blood tests to become abnormal, such as thyroid function tests and liver function tests, and caution should be taken when interpreting these results.
- Androcur may cause changes in lipid and glucose metabolism and caution should be taken in patients with a history of metabolic disorders.
- Androcur may cause changes in liver function tests, and caution should be taken in patients with a history of liver disease or abnormal liver function.
- Androcur may cause high potassium levels and should be used with caution in patients with renal insufficiency or those taking medication that can increase potassium levels.
- Androcur may cause menstrual irregularities in women, and caution should be taken in patients with a history of menstrual irregularities or reproductive disorders.
- Androcur may increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (blood clots forming in the veins) and caution should be taken in patients with a history of blood clots or clotting disorders.
- Androcur may interact with other medications, including some hormone replacement therapies, and caution should be taken to avoid potential drug interactions.
- Androcur should be used with caution in patients with a history of depression, as it may exacerbate their condition.
- Androcur should not be used during pregnancy, as it may cause fetal abnormalities.
- Androcur should not be used in patients with severe impaired liver function.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for Androcur to work?
The onset of action for Androcur may vary depending on the condition being treated, but it typically takes a few weeks to several months to see the full effects of the medication.
Can Androcur be used in children?
Androcur may be used in children to delay puberty in the case of gender dysphoria, but its use in children under the age of 18 is controversial and should be carefully considered on a case-by-case basis.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Androcur?
It is generally recommended to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Androcur, as alcohol may increase the risk of liver toxicity.
Does Androcur affect fertility?
Yes, Androcur may decrease fertility in both men and women and should be used with caution in patients who wish to preserve their fertility.
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