Danazol is now a second line treatment for endometriosis owing to its profile of side effects
Danazol works directly on the ovaries by suppressing (damping down) the production of oestrogen and progesterone by the ovaries. Danazol also has an indirect action on the hypothalamus (an area of the brain that controls body temperature, thirst and hunger) as well as inhibiting (preventing) the production of gonadotrophin (sex hormone) by the pituitary gland (gland situated at the base of the brain). The treatment will therefore trick the body into a pseudo (false) state of menopause causing the deposits of endometriosis to shrink.
Danazol comes in capsule form in strengths of 100mgs and 200mgs per capsule and is taken orally (by mouth). The usual range of dosage is 200mgs to 800mgs daily in up to four divided doses. The dosage will depend on the individual patient as well as the preferences of the medical practitioner. Danazol should be started on the first day of the monthly cycle to avoid exposing a pregnancy to the side effects of Danol. The most common dosage of Danazol for endometriosis is 400mgs daily for six to nine months. Dosage may need to be increased if bleeding continues after two months treatment or in severe cases of disease.
Contra-indications include Pregnancy, Lactating women (breast feeding), Liver disease, Undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding,
Heart disease, Women with thrombosis, Androgen dependent tumours, Kidney disease
Side effects of Danazol include:
Acne, Hot flushes, Visual disturbances, Cramps, Back pain
Bloating, Jaundice, Weight gain, Reduction of breast size, Spotting, Joint pain, Changes to sex drive, Headache, Voice changes, dysuria, Constipation, Gastric upsets, Greasy skin
Breast tenderness, Pelvic pain, Uterine pain, Dyspareunia, Oedema, Hirsutism = hairiness