Androcur (Cyproterone Acetate)

What is Androcur?

Androcur contains an active ingredient called cyproterone acetate, which is an anti-androgen.

What is Androcur used for?

Androcur is indicated for the treatment of prostate cancer.

How does Androcur work?

Androcur works by blocking the effect of hormone testosterone and causing a reduction in production of testosterone in the testicles.

How to use Androcur

Androcur is available both in tablet and injection form. Take Androcur the way it was prescribed by the doctor. Do not consume it for more than the recommended duration or quantity.

The medicine is usually taken twice or thrice daily, after meals, or as directed by the doctor. Men, who have had their testicles removed, will need a lower dose of 100-200 mg as compared to others who require 200-300 mg daily dose of Androcur.

For the long acting form of cyproterone, the recommended dose is 300 mg, which is injected into a muscle once a week.

While using the medicine in injection form, make sure you dispose of the used syringes in a puncture proof container. Do not dispose of the medication in wastewater or in household garbage. Follow your pharmacist’s directions on how to properly dispose of the medication that has expired or is no longer needed.

Androcur warnings and precautions

Do not take Androcur if you are allergic to cyproterone or any of the medicine’s ingredients. People with active liver disease or reduced liver or kidney functions should not consume this medication unless prescribed by the doctor. Diabetics and depression patients should be very careful while taking the medicine.

Androcur should not be used by women or children under the age of 18 years. People who have had a meningioma (tumor in the protective membranes around spinal cord and brain), sickle cell anemia, or cancerous disease (except prostate cancer) should not take this drug. Also, the medication is not for men whose testicles and bones have not matured completely or those with a history of blood clot in an artery.

Do not perform attention-requiring tasks after taking Androcur dose as it may make you feel weak or tired.

The medicine is known to decrease the sperm count of the medicine. In some rare cases, it may make the sperms abnormal in shape and may even cause birth defects. You should discuss this with your doctor, before starting with the treatment.

What do I do if I have missed a Androcur dose?

If you have missed an Androcur dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular schedule. Do not take an extra dose to catch up.

What do I do if I have taken a Androcur overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Androcur, you should contact your doctor.

Androcur interactions

Before using Androcur, tell your doctor about all prescription and non prescription dosages that you are on, including some mineral or vitamin supplements that you may be taking.

Do not start using any new medication without consulting your doctor.

Androcur side effects

Androcur side effects include reduced sperm count, weight changes, liver disorders, feeling short of breath, changes in hair growth pattern, abnormal blood clots in blood vessels, dry skin, lightening of hair color, decreased volume of ejaculation, or some allergic reactions. You might get osteoporosis or liver cancer; however that happens in some very rare cases; stop taking the medicine and call your doctor right away if such a case persists.

Depressive moods, fatigue, restlessness, breast tenderness or enlargement, and skin rash are some less serious side effects of Androcur.