Danazol

Generic Details

Generic Name

Danazol

Other Names

  • Danocrine

Drug Class

  • Synthetic androgen

Chemical Formula

C22H27NO2

Molecular Weight

337.46 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Danazol suppresses the pituitary-ovarian axis, reducing estrogen production and inhibiting the midcycle surge of LH and FSH.

Indications

  • Treatment of endometriosis
  • Hereditary angioedema
  • Fibrocystic breast disease

Common Dosage Forms

  • Capsules

Typical Dosage

  • Endometriosis: 200-800 mg daily in divided doses
  • Angioedema: 200 mg 2-3 times daily

Pediatric Dosage

  • Not established

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dosage adjustments may be required

Side Effects

  • Weight gain
  • Acne
  • Oily skin
  • Edema
  • Hot flashes
  • Voice changes
  • Irregular menstrual periods

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy
  • Thromboembolic disease
  • Porphyria
  • Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
  • Hepatic dysfunction

Pregnancy Category

  • Pregnancy Category X

Lactation Safety

  • Not recommended during breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Carbamazepine
  • Cyclosporine

Overdose Symptoms

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Headache

Antidote for Overdose

  • There is no specific antidote; treatment is supportive.

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Well absorbed orally
  • Distribution: Highly protein-bound
  • Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
  • Excretion: Primarily renal

Precautions

  • Monitor liver function tests regularly
  • Consider risk of androgenic side effects

Warnings

  • Risk of virilization in females
  • May increase LDL cholesterol levels

Others

  • Danazol should only be used for the conditions indicated under medical supervision.