Hormonal treatment of sex offenders

In humans, roles for androgens have been described in the regulation of sexuality, aggression, cognition, emotion and personality. Recent advance in the understanding of factors that are associated with sexual aggression have led to improved methods of treatment. A number of organic treatments which reduce the plasma testosterone levels or decrease androgen effects on target cells are available. These treatments may reduce the chance of reoffending of sexually aggressive men. The authors will review the literature on orchidectomy, oestrogens or progestogens such as medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) or cyproterone acetate (CPA) which are currently used in the treatment of deviant sexuality. From now, orchidectomy and treatment with either estrogens or MPA are withdrawn. The authors will also report the good clinical efficacy of a GnRH analogue (triptoreline) in eleven sex offenders. When used in conjunction with psychotherapy, they may benefit sex offenders especially in those who are motivated for treatment.