Androgens, Anti-androgens and Anabolic steroids

Question 1

Androgens mechanism of action

Answer 1

Inhibit pituitary gonadotrophin secretion and depress spermatogenesis

Question 2

When are androgens used for the treatment of impotence?

Answer 2

Where there is associated hypogonadism

Question 3

Effects of androgens

Answer 3

Masculinisation

Question 4

Treatment of severe hyper-sexuality and sexual deviation

Answer 4

Cyproterone acetate - anti-androgens

Question 5

Mechanism of action of anti-androgens

Answer 5

Inhibits spermatogenesis and produces reversible infertility (but is not a male contraceptive)

Question 6

Side effect of cyproterone acetate

Answer 6

Abnormal sperm forms
Hepatic tumours in animal studies

Question 7

Treatment of enlarged prostate where alpha-blockers aren’t suitable

Answer 7

Dutasteride
Finasteride

Question 8

What is finasteride licensed for treating?

Answer 8

Enlarged prostate
Management of benign prostatic hyperplasia with doxazosin
Male pattern baldness

Question 9

What do anabolic steroids treat?

Answer 9

Some aplastic anaemias
Used to be used in osteoporosis in women

Question 10

Concerns with anabolic steroids

Answer 10

Athlete misuse