Danazol 200 mg (brand name example: Danamet 200) is a synthetic steroid medication used primarily to treat endometriosis, fibrocystic breast disease, and hereditary angioedema. It works by regulating hormone levels in the body and is available as a capsule for oral administration. 

Key Information

• Uses:
  • Endometriosis: Treats tissue that grows outside the uterus, which can cause pain, infertility, and irregular bleeding.
  • Fibrocystic Breast Disease: Relieves severe pain and tenderness associated with noncancerous lumps when other treatments are not effective.
  • Hereditary Angioedema: Helps prevent episodes of swelling in individuals with this inherited immune system disorder.
  • Other uses: Also indicated for menorrhagia (heavy periods) and preoperative thinning of the endometrium.
• Mechanism of Action:
  • Danazol suppresses the pituitary-ovarian axis, which inhibits the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
  • This action leads to decreased estrogen production and causes the inactive and atrophic (shrinking) changes in endometrial tissue.
  • It also binds to androgen and progesterone receptors and has weak androgenic (male hormone-like) activity.
• Common Side Effects:
  • Androgenic effects: Weight gain, acne, oily skin/hair, decreased breast size, and voice changes.
  • Menstrual irregularities, including amenorrhea (absence of periods).
  • Muscle cramps and joint pain.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
• Important Precautions:
  • Use effective non-hormonal birth control during treatment, as danazol can be harmful to a developing fetus and is contraindicated in pregnancy.
  • Inform your doctor if you have pre-existing heart, kidney, or liver disease, as careful observation is required.
  • Regular blood tests will be monitored by your healthcare provider to check for potential liver damage or other serious side effects like blood clots. 

Administration

• Danazol 200 mg capsules are taken orally.
• It is generally recommended to take the medication with food to decrease stomach upset and to take doses at regular intervals.
• Dosage for conditions like endometriosis typically starts between 200 mg to 800 mg daily in divided doses, adjusted based on patient response.
• Treatment for endometriosis usually lasts for 3 to 6 months, or up to 9 months if necessary. 

Always consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, as this information is for educational purposes only.