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Which Hormone is Called Anti-?

Published in Hormone Antagonists 3 mins read

The term "anti-" preceding "hormone" doesn't refer to a single hormone, but rather describes a type of hormone therapy or specific hormones that oppose the effects of other hormones. Several examples exist, depending on the context:

1. Anti-androgens:

These are medications that block the effects of androgens (male sex hormones like testosterone). They're frequently used in treating prostate cancer. The American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/prostate-cancer/treating/hormone-therapy.html and Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/hormone-therapy-for-prostate-cancer/about/pac-20384737 both highlight the role of anti-androgens in prostate cancer treatment. They are often used in conjunction with LHRH agonists. The Canadian Cancer Society also notes their use when cancer progresses after other treatments. https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/prostate/treatment/hormone-therapy

2. Anti-estrogens:

These medications block the effects of estrogen. They are frequently used in treating certain types of breast cancer. The Breastcancer.org website https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/hormonal-therapy refers to this type of therapy as "anti-estrogen therapy," "endocrine therapy," or simply "hormone therapy," showcasing the interchangeable terminology. The National Cancer Institute also provides information on hormone therapy for breast cancer. https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/breast-hormone-therapy-fact-sheet

3. Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH):

While not a therapeutic "anti-hormone" in the same sense as the previous examples, AMH is a hormone with an antagonistic role. It inhibits the development of the Müllerian ducts in males during embryonic development. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544351/ It's also used in fertility assessments to check ovarian reserve. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/anti-mullerian-hormone-test/

4. Anti-auxins:

These are chemicals that counteract the effects of auxins, plant hormones that regulate growth and development. A common example is PCIB (p-para chloro phenoxy isobutyric acid).

In summary, "anti-hormone" isn't a specific hormone name but a descriptor for a class of drugs or hormones with opposing effects to other hormones within the body or plant systems.

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