We report the results of an 8-year clinical investigation of the antiandrogen cyproterone acetate (Androcur, Schering AG Berlin) for the dose-dependent reversible inhibition of sexuality in the human male. The antiandrogen effect is based on the competitive inhibition of all androgens at the androgen sensitive target organs. The selective action at the hypothalamic “mating centres” is the decisive factor for the inhibition of sexuality. The report covers experiences from about 300 men under treatment for a minimum of 2 months and a maximum of 8 years. The orally administered dose of cyproterone acetate ranged from 50–200 mg/day, the intramuscular dose in an oily solution to achieve a prolonged effect from 300–600 mg every week or second week. The dose-dependent reversible effect allows a temporary inhibitory influence on sexuality extending from partial reduction to complete inhibition. This therapy has proved itself to be of real assistance to sexual delinquents and to those who live in constant fear of committing sexual offences. It has proved itself to be a valuable aid in psychotherapy of sexual deviations and perversions in that the perverse cycle is interrupted and a “sexual calm” is created as a starting point for psychotherapy. The interactions of cyproterone acetate with the endocrine system (progestogenic, antigonadotrophic, adrenocortical, testicular interactions) and spermatogenesis are reported.
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