For individuals undergoing male-to-female (MTF) transitions, hormone therapy often involves two main types of medications: estrogen and anti-androgens, also known as “blockers.”

Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone and promotes the development of secondary sexual characteristics typically associated with females, such as breast development and redistribution of body fat.

Anti-androgens, on the other hand, are used to block the effects of testosterone, the primary male sex hormone. By suppressing testosterone, these blockers help reduce typically male secondary sexual characteristics such as body hair and muscle mass.

There are several types of anti-androgens, including:

1. Spironolactone: This is a commonly used anti-androgen in the United States. It blocks the body’s receptors for testosterone, preventing it from having an effect.
2. Cyproterone acetate: This is a commonly used anti-androgen in Europe and Canada, but it is not available in the United States. It works by both blocking testosterone receptors and reducing the production of testosterone in the body.
3. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists: These medications reduce the amount of testosterone produced by the body. They are often used for individuals who are still going through puberty, but they can also be used in adults. Examples include leuprolide (Lupron) and goserelin (Zoladex).

These medications should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider who is experienced in transgender healthcare, as they can have side effects and risks that need to be monitored. Additionally, their effectiveness varies from person to person. They are typically part of a broader hormone therapy regimen that also includes estrogen.