Pharmacology of Androgens and Antiandrogens

A set of vocabulary flashcards designed to aid students in understanding key terms and concepts related to the pharmacology of androgens and antiandrogens.

Androgens

Male sex hormones that regulate male traits and reproductive activity.

Antiandrogens

Drugs that inhibit the effects of androgens, used in conditions like prostate cancer.

Hypogonadism

A condition characterized by decreased function of the testes leading to diminished hormone production.

Androgen Replacement Therapy

Treatment aimed at restoring testosterone levels in men suffering from low testosterone.

Aromatase

An enzyme that converts androgens into estrogens.

Testosterone

The primary male sex hormone responsible for the development of male characteristics.

5α-Reductase

An enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Prostate Cancer

A malignant growth within the prostate gland often affected by androgen production.

GnRH Agonists

Medications that stimulate the release of gonadotropins; used in hormone-sensitive cancers.

DHT (Dihydrotestosterone)

A potent androgen derived from testosterone, responsible for male pattern baldness and prostate growth.

Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer that continues to progress despite castration levels of testosterone.

Drug Interaction

A situation in which a drug affects the activity of another drug when both are administered together.

Hormonal Side Effects

Unwanted effects that occur as a result of hormone therapy.

Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs)

Harmful or unpleasant reactions that result from taking medications.

Spermatogenesis

The process of sperm production in the testes.

Anabolic Effects

Beneficial effects of androgens that promote muscle growth and strength.

Androgenic Effects

Effects of androgens that develop male secondary sexual characteristics.

Abiraterone Acetate

A medication used to treat prostate cancer by inhibiting steroid synthesis.

CYP17

An enzyme involved in steroid hormone biosynthesis and a target for prostate cancer therapies.

Flutamide

An antiandrogen medication that blocks androgen receptors used to treat prostate cancer.

Danazol

An androgen derivative used to treat endometriosis and fibrocystic breast disease.

Nandrolone Ester

An anabolic steroid used to promote muscle growth.

GnRH Analogues

Synthetic hormones that mimic natural gonadotropin-releasing hormone to suppress androgens.

Enzalutamide

An antiandrogen medication used in the treatment of prostate cancer.

Proliferative Effects

Effects that promote cell division and growth, often influenced by hormones like testosterone.

Cyproterone Acetate

A drug that acts as an antiandrogen and progesterone receptor antagonist.