Anti-androgens are a class of medications that block or counter the effects of male sex hormones, known as androgens. These hormones, such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, are typically present in higher levels in people born with male sex characteristics. Anti-androgen medications work by interfering with how these hormones function in the body.

Because they can affect hormone activity, anti-androgens are used in a variety of treatments — from managing prostate cancer to reducing unwanted hair growth, and even as part of gender-affirming care. They can also help treat certain conditions in women caused by higher androgen levels.

What Are Anti-Androgens?

Androgens are male sex hormones that play a key role in the development of male sex characteristics. Anti-androgens, also called androgen antagonists or testosterone blockers, are medications that reduce or block the effects of androgens. They do this by binding to protein receptors called androgen receptors.

These medications have several medical uses. For example, they may be used to treat prostate cancer, reduce unwanted hair growth in women, or support gender-affirming care. Women usually produce a small amount of androgens, but some health conditions — such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — can cause higher levels. In these cases, anti-androgens can help manage symptoms.

How Do Androgen Blockers Work?

Androgen blockers work by binding to androgen receptors, the proteins that normally allow hormones like testosterone to act on cells. When the receptors are blocked, the androgens cannot attach and activate them. This prevents the hormones from carrying out their usual functions.

Different types of anti-androgens exist, and they may work in slightly different ways. Some directly block androgen receptors, while others reduce androgen production in the body. Doctors may use them alone or in combination with other treatments, depending on the condition being managed.

Because androgens affect many tissues throughout the body — including skin, hair, reproductive organs, and the prostate — blocking them can influence a wide range of physical changes and health conditions.

How Are Anti-Androgens Used?

Anti-androgens are prescribed for different reasons depending on a person’s health needs. They may be used to treat prostate cancer, reduce symptoms of PCOS, or help transgender women and nonbinary people reduce masculine traits.

Anti-Androgen Uses for Women

Women typically have much lower androgen levels than men. However, some conditions can lead to higher levels and related symptoms. PCOS is one of the most common, causing issues such as acne, excessive hair growth, and ovulation problems. Anti-androgens may be prescribed to help reduce these symptoms.

Other conditions linked to elevated androgens in women include adrenal hyperplasia, ovarian or adrenal tumors, and certain skin conditions. Anti-androgens can be effective in managing:

• Adrenal hyperplasia
• Ovarian tumors
• Adrenal gland tumors
• Acne
• Amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods)
• Seborrhea (oily skin)
• Hidradenitis suppurativa
• Hirsutism (excessive hair growth)
• Female pattern baldness

In addition, anti-androgens may reduce long-term risks associated with high androgen levels, such as:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Heart disease

Anti-Androgen Uses for Transgender and Nonbinary People

Anti-androgens are commonly used in gender-affirming care. For transgender women and some nonbinary people, these medications can reduce masculinizing effects of testosterone. This may include lowering facial and body hair growth, slowing male-pattern baldness, and reducing erections.

When taken alongside estrogen therapy, anti-androgens can be especially effective. Estrogen helps develop feminine physical traits while also suppressing testosterone levels. Combined treatment supports both the reduction of masculine traits and the development of feminine ones.

For nonbinary people, anti-androgens may be used to help reduce masculine features without fully transitioning to female physical traits. Treatment plans are tailored to each person’s needs and goals.

Anti-Androgen Uses for Men

In men, androgens can fuel prostate cancer cell growth. Anti-androgens help slow this process by blocking androgens from reaching the cancer cells, essentially starving the tumor of what it needs to grow. While they don’t stop the body from making androgens, they are often used along with other treatments — such as surgery or chemical castration — for greater effectiveness.

Treatment combinations may include:

• Combined androgen blockade
• Complete androgen blockade
• Total androgen blockade

Beyond prostate cancer, anti-androgens may also help men with certain conditions such as:

• Acne
• Seborrhea
• Hidradenitis suppurativa (more common in women but may occur in men)
• Hirsutism (rare in men)
• Alopecia (hair loss)
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)
• Precocious puberty
• Sexual disorders, such as hypersexuality

Examples of Anti-Androgen Drugs

• Flutamide – Often used to treat certain types of prostate cancer.
• Spironolactone – Commonly prescribed for hormonal acne, excessive hair growth, and in transgender care to reduce masculine traits.
• Cyproterone – Used outside the U.S. for PCOS symptoms and to reduce acne and masculine traits in transgender women. It is not approved in the U.S. due to side effects.

Are There Natural Anti-Androgens?

Some foods and supplements may act as natural anti-androgens, although their effectiveness is limited compared to prescription medications. Natural sources may help support hormonal balance and include:

• Spearmint tea
• Licorice extract
• Green tea
• Red reishi mushroom
• Zinc
• White peony

If you’re considering natural options, it’s important to discuss them with your provider to ensure they’re safe and effective for your needs.

Side Effects of Taking Androgen Blockers

Like most medications, anti-androgens can cause side effects. The type and severity of side effects often depend on the dose, how long they’re taken, and the individual’s health.

Some possible side effects include changes in sexual health, mood, and energy levels. Others may affect the liver or cause hormonal imbalances. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid anti-androgens, as they may affect fetal development.

Possible side effects include:

• Low sex drive
• Increased risk of depression
• Erectile dysfunction
• Fetal developmental issues if taken during pregnancy
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Hepatitis
• Breast tenderness
• Diarrhea
• Menstrual irregularity
• Hot flashes
• Skin rash
• Anti-androgen resistance (medication stops working)

Anti-Androgen Therapy at Baptist Health

At Baptist Health, our providers use anti-androgen therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. These medications can play a role in managing conditions such as prostate cancer, PCOS, acne, hirsutism, and female pattern baldness.

Your care team will work with you to discuss whether anti-androgen therapy is appropriate, explain how it works, and review possible side effects. We understand that every patient’s situation is different, and we are here to provide compassionate, personalized care.

If you’re interested in learning more about anti-androgen therapy, call +1 (877) 340-7834 or talk with your Baptist Health provider. If you don't have one, you can find a provider using our provider directory.