Danocrine / Danol (
generic name: danazol) is a synthetic steroid used to treat
endometriosis,
fibrocystic breast disease, and some
hereditary angioedema conditions.
Danazol belongs to the class of medicines known as
androgen derivatives. It works by suppressing the pituitary-ovarian axis, leading to decreased production of hormones such as estrogen. This helps relieve symptoms of endometriosis by reducing menstrual pain, heavy bleeding, and pelvic discomfort.
In hereditary angioedema, danazol increases the levels of C1 esterase inhibitor, thereby reducing swelling episodes of the face, extremities, and airways. In fibrocystic breast disease, it helps relieve breast pain and tenderness by altering hormone balance. Learn more about Danol from
MedlinePlus.
Usual dosage
It is important to follow the dosage instructions printed on the label of the box.
For endometriosis, the typical adult starting dose is
200–800 mg daily in two or three divided doses for 3–6 months, adjusted depending on severity.
For fibrocystic breast disease, treatment usually begins with
100–400 mg daily in divided doses for several months until symptoms improve.
In hereditary angioedema, a common maintenance dose is
200 mg two or three times daily, with reduction to the lowest effective dose once attacks are controlled.
Tablets should be swallowed whole with water, with or without food. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose.
Do not double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Important: therapy should be continued regularly and not stopped suddenly without medical advice, as symptoms may return.
Standard storage
Store danazol at
20-25 °C (68-77 °F), with short periods between 15-30 °C (59-86 °F). Protect from moisture and light. Keep in a tightly closed container, out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the package (last day of the stated month).
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
The information leaflet that comes with the medication includes full information about the possible side effects. Be sure to read and understand these, and if there are any questions, discuss these with a healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting treatment.
Caution
Pregnant women should not be using Danocrine / Danol unless this has been discussed with a healthcare provider, as it might harm the unborn baby or pose a risk of miscarriage. For this reason, women planning to become pregnant should use appropriate birth control measures during the treatment and one month after taking the last dose of Danocrine / Danol.
Danocrine / Danol may pass into breast milk, and mothers should consult with a doctor if already feeding or planning to feed an infant.
Most people who use danazol do not experience any adverse side effects. Doctors prescribe this medication because they assess the benefits of such treatment outweigh any likely unwanted effects.
Some of the side effects that have been reported include:
- Weight gain
- Acne and oily skin
- Increased hair growth (hirsutism)
- Voice changes (hoarseness or deepening)
- Menstrual irregularities
- Hot flashes
- Muscle cramps
Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Danol is used to manage endometriosis, a chronic condition where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, leading to pelvic pain, painful periods, infertility, and heavy menstrual bleeding. By reducing estrogen production, danazol helps suppress abnormal tissue growth and alleviate symptoms.
It is also prescribed for fibrocystic breast disease, where benign cysts cause breast pain, swelling, and nodularity; danazol reduces pain by altering hormonal activity.
Another key indication is hereditary angioedema, a rare condition marked by recurrent swelling of the skin, gastrointestinal tract, or airway due to deficiency of C1 inhibitor protein.
Danazol increases C1 inhibitor levels, preventing swelling attacks.
Off-label, it may be used for some immune or hematological disorders, though such use requires close specialist oversight.