Cyproterone is a synthetic steroidal anti-androgen with additional progestogenic activity that acts by blocking androgen receptors and reducing the effects of testosterone. It is used in the management of androgen-dependent conditions such as prostate cancer, severe acne, hirsutism, hyperandrogenism, and in certain hormonal therapies. Cyproterone was developed in the early 1960s by Schering in Germany as part of research into anti-androgenic compounds and was later introduced clinically in its more effective form, cyproterone acetate. Over time, its therapeutic use expanded from oncology to gynecology and endocrinology. Although it has proven clinical value, modern use is more controlled due to safety concerns associated with long-term treatment, including potential liver toxicity and risk of meningioma.
