Androgen receptor antagonist

Androgen receptor antagonist (also known as antiandrogens) are a group of hormone antagonist compounds that are capable of preventing or inhibiting the biologic effects of androgens, male sex hormones, on normally responsive tissues in the body (i.e., they prevent androgens from expressing their biological effects on target tissues). Androgen receptor antagonists are used in the treatment of diseases such as prostate cancer and conditions like androgenetic alopecia.

Mechanism of Action

Androgen receptor antagonists work by binding to the androgen receptor in target tissues, thereby preventing androgens like testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) from binding to these receptors and expressing their biological effects. This mechanism of action is what makes these compounds effective in the treatment of diseases and conditions that are driven by androgens.

Uses

Androgen receptor antagonists are used in the treatment of a variety of conditions and diseases. These include:

• Prostate cancer: Androgen receptor antagonists are commonly used in the treatment of prostate cancer, as this type of cancer is often driven by androgens.
• Androgenetic alopecia: Also known as male pattern baldness, this condition can be treated with androgen receptor antagonists to prevent further hair loss.
• Hirsutism: This condition, characterized by excessive hair growth in women, can be treated with androgen receptor antagonists to slow down hair growth.

Side Effects

Like all medications, androgen receptor antagonists can have side effects. These can include:

• Gynecomastia: This is a condition characterized by the enlargement of the male breasts, which can occur as a result of the decreased androgen activity in the body.
• Hot flashes: This is a common side effect of androgen deprivation therapy, which includes the use of androgen receptor antagonists.
• Sexual dysfunction: This can include decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.

See Also

• Androgen receptor
• Hormone antagonist
• Prostate cancer
• Androgenetic alopecia
• Hirsutism