Common brand names

• Danocrine

How it is administered

Danazol is taken by mouth in the form of capsules. It is available in strengths of 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg. The capsules should be swallowed whole, usually divided into two or three doses per day, depending on your doctor's instructions and the condition being treated.

How it works

Danazol is a synthetic steroid that works by suppressing the pituitary-ovarian axis. This means it reduces the production of certain hormones, particularly estrogen, by affecting the signals between the brain and the ovaries. Danazol also has weak androgenic (male hormone-like) activity.

It lowers the output of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are important for the menstrual cycle and hormone production. Danazol can also bind to hormone receptors in various tissues, altering the way sex steroids are processed in the body. In addition, it can decrease certain immune proteins, which is helpful in some autoimmune conditions. In hereditary angioedema, danazol increases the levels of a protein called C1 esterase inhibitor, which helps prevent attacks of swelling.

Danazol's effects are generally reversible, and normal hormone cycles usually return within a few months after stopping the medication.

Who should take it

Danazol is approved for the treatment of endometriosis that can be managed with hormones and for the prevention of hereditary angioedema attacks (swelling episodes) in both males and females.

While danazol is not specifically indicated for myelofibrosis or other blood cancers, it may sometimes be used off-label in rare cases to help manage certain blood disorders, such as those involving low platelet or red blood cell counts, due to its effects on hormone and immune systems. Always consult your doctor for advice specific to your condition.

Who should not take it

Danazol should not be used by:

• People with undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding
• Those with severe liver, kidney, or heart problems
• Pregnant women or those who may become pregnant
• Breastfeeding mothers
• People with porphyria (a rare blood disorder)
• Those with androgen-dependent tumors (tumors that grow in response to male hormones)
• Anyone with active blood clots or a history of blood clotting disorders
• Individuals allergic to danazol

If you have any of these conditions, discuss alternative treatments with your doctor.

Commonly used with

Danazol is usually used alone for its approved indications. However, if you are taking other medications, especially blood thinners like warfarin, antidiabetic drugs, statins, or immunosuppressants like cyclosporin or tacrolimus, your doctor may need to adjust your doses or monitor you closely, as danazol can interact with these medicines.

Commonly tested with

Danazol may be tested in combination with other medications in clinical research, especially in rare blood disorders or immune conditions. If you are part of a clinical trial or your doctor is considering off-label use, you may be monitored closely with regular blood tests and possibly in combination with other supportive therapies.