A progestogen that is particularly effective at blocking the effect of male sex hormones (androgens)on the skin, and therefore reducing abnormal hair growth (hirsutism) and acne. Found singly in Androcur and in combination with an estrogen in Diane-35, a formulation used for oral contraception. Dangerous if taken in pregnancy, because it stops male fetuses from developing normal genital organs. Not available in the US.

A formulation of the oral contraceptive pill that contains, as well as an estrogen, the progestogen known as cyproterone acetate, which is particularly effective at blocking the effects of male hormones on the skin. Made by Schering.

A progesterone-like substance, usually more active when given by mouth than natural progesterone is. Used with an estrogen in the birth control (oral contraceptive) pill. Commonly used examples have a structure like progesterone itself (e.g. medroxyprogesterone acetate, or Provera; cyproterone acetate, or Androcur) or have a structure distantly related to the male hormone testosterone (e.g. norethisterone, or Primolut N; norgestrel)