Products
Danazol was commercially available in many countries in the form of capsules and had been approved since 1977 (Danatrol). No finished drug products have since been registered.
Structure and properties
Danazol (C22H27NO2, Mr = 337.5 g/mol) is an isoxazole derivative of ethisterone related to testosterone. Danazol exists as a white to slightly yellow crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water.
Effects
Danazol (ATC G03XA01) has antigonadotropic properties. It inhibits the synthesis and secretion of the gonadotropins LH and FSH. Danazol, on the other hand, is neither estrogenic nor progestogenic, but has androgenic and anabolic effects. In women, it suppresses ovulation and menstruation. In men, it lowers testosterone levels.
Indications
- For the treatment of endometriosis.
- For the treatment of a mastopathy (mastopathia cystica fibrosa).
- For the treatment of hereditary angioedema.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The capsules are usually taken two to three times a day.
Abuse
Due to its androgenic and anabolic effects, danazol can be abused as a doping agent and for bodybuilding. It is banned according to the doping list both outside and during athletic competitions.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Pregnancy
- Lactation
- Abnormal bleeding of unclear cause
- Hepatic insufficiency
- Renal insufficiency
- Heart failure
- Porphyria
- Androgen-dependent tumors
- Active thrombosis or thromboembolic disease
- Hyperlipidemia
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include:
- Pain, muscle cramps
- Psychiatric disorders such as emotional lability, anxiety, depression, nervousness, headaches.
- Bleeding disorders, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, libido changes.
- Skin redness
- Androgenization symptoms: Weight changes, acne, seborrhea, hirsutism, hair loss, change in voice.
- Nausea
