Progestogens in the treatment of male sex offenders: a review.

The literature on the progestogens, medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and cyproterone acetate (CPA), which are currently used in the treatment of deviant male hypersexuality, is reviewed. There are few adequately controlled trials, but clinical observations suggest that the drugs are reasonably effective in suppressing libido and sexual arousal in men. They are approximately equipotent and equivalent in this respect, but differ somewhat in their pharmacology. When used in conjunction with other measures, especially psychotherapy, they may benefit some sex offenders. The best results are likely in self-referred, nonrecidivist hypersexuals, with good social supports and who are motivated for treatment. The need for long-term placebo and comparison trials is stressed.