Cyproterone acetate is a synthetic steroidal antiandrogen drug used to treat prostate cancer. It suppresses androgen hormones by inhibiting growth of testosterone-sensitive cells. An acetate salt, the drug works by binding to androgen receptors to prevent receptor activation. Additionally, this drug reduces luteinizing hormone  via the pituitary gland, which reduces androgen secretion in the testes and overall serum testosterone levels. It has weak progestational and antineoplastic activities. It has been studied for its effect in reducing hot flashes in patients with cancer. 

A systematic review of the literature of hot flash interventions for men treated for prostate cancer found that some hormonal agents, including cyproterone acetate, were able to decrease hot flashes by at least 75% but produced severe side effects. All studies were too limited to evaluate safety and long-term risks of treatment.