Where is Danazol used?
Danazol is used in women to treat infertility due to a certain uterus disorder or endometriosis and pelvic pain. This may also be used to treat breast pain, nodules, and tenderness due to a certain breast condition called fibrocystic breast disease. This is also used in both men and women to prevent swelling of the arms, abdomen, face, legs, and airway. It is due to a certain congenital disease called hereditary angioedema.
Danazol is a synthetic steroid derived from ethisterone. This medication belongs to the group of drugs called androgens. Danazol is a man-made form of steroid. This affects the ovaries and pituitary gland. This also prevents the release of certain hormones in the body. This has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
How does Danazol work?
Danazol is an androgen similar to testosterone.
- The treatment of endometriosis and fibrocystic breast disease works by lessening the number of hormones made by the ovaries. These hormones typically make the conditions worse.
- For the treatment of angioedema, Danazol helps to increase the total of a certain protein in your body’s defense system (immune system).
How is Danazol taken?
Take this medicine by mouth, usually twice a day. You may take each dose with or without food. Take it the same way with every dose and at the same time each day. Use this medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not change the prescribed dosage to avoid some complications.
You must use this drug only as directed by your doctor. Do not use it more often, do not use more of it, and do not use it for a longer period than your doctor has given. To do so may cause unwanted side effects. For this medicine to help you, it should be taken regularly for full-time treatment as ordered by your doctor.
What are the possible side effects of Danazol?
Common side effects:
- Sweating
- Acne
- Weight gain
- Hair loss
- Flushing
- Nervousness
- Sore throat
- Voice changes (changes in pitch, hoarseness)
- Decreased breast size
- Abnormal growth of body hair in women
- Vaginal dryness, burning, irritation, or itching
- Water retention or bloating
- Depression, mood changes, irritability
- Changes in the menstrual cycle (spotting or irregular bleeding)
What are the precautions in taking Danazol?
- This medication is not prescribed for pregnant women. If you get pregnant while having this treatment, call your doctor right away.
- If you are a breastfeeding woman, consult your doctor first before taking this drug.
- Let your doctor know if you have any allergies, current treatments, or medical history.
- You should not use this if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or a history of stroke or blood clot.
- Stop using this and call for medical help if there is an allergic reaction or overdose.
- Do not share this with others who have the same condition as yours.
- Before having a surgical procedure, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use including non-prescription drugs, prescription drugs, and herbal products.
