Differential pharmacological treatment of paraphilias and sex offenders

Int J Offender Ther Comp Criminol. 2003 Aug;47(4):407-21. doi: 10.1177/0306624X03253847.

Abstract

This article gives an overview of current pharmacological treatment of paraphilias and sex offenders focusing on the situation in Germany. Information about selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) is followed by data about established antihormonal substances (cyproterone acetate/CPA, and medroxyprogesterone acetate/MPA), as well as a more detailed account on luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonists (LHRH agonists). The results of open, uncontrolled clinical studies with SSRIs (n = 16) and LHRH agonists (n = 11) in paraphilic outpatients confirm the positive effects of these substances. A survey about the use of CPA and LHRH agonists in forensic hospitals in Germany shows that half of the patients treated with any kind of (anti-) hormonal agents received an LHRH agonist. The authors present a protocol on side effects, contraindications, and monitoring of CPA and LHRH agonists and develop an algorithm for differential pharmacotherapy of paraphilias.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Androgen Antagonists / adverse effects
  • Androgen Antagonists / therapeutic use*
  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone / adverse effects
  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone / agonists*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Paraphilic Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / adverse effects
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Sex Offenses / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Sex Offenses / prevention & control*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Androgen Antagonists
  • Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors
  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone