Danazol is an older, yet clinically important therapy with proven benefit in several conditions where hormonal modulation or C1-esterase inhibitor augmentation is desired. Its best-established indications include endometriosis, fibrocystic breast disease (also called benign mastalgia or fibrocystic breast changes), and prophylaxis of hereditary angioedema (HAE). By suppressing pituitary gonadotropins (FSH and LH), danazol reduces ovarian estrogen production and induces a hypoestrogenic, hyperandrogenic state, which can shrink endometrial implants and reduce pelvic pain.
In hereditary angioedema, danazol stimulates hepatic synthesis of C1-esterase inhibitor, a key regulator of the complement and contact systems. Restoring this protein’s levels helps prevent the recurrent swelling episodes that characterize HAE, lowering attack frequency and severity in many patients. For fibrocystic breast disease, danazol can decrease breast tenderness and nodularity by dampening cyclical hormonal flux.
Beyond these approved uses, clinicians sometimes consider danazol off-label when other therapies fail or are contraindicated, such as certain refractory gynecologic pain syndromes or hematologic conditions. However, because of its androgenic effects and metabolic impact, modern practice favors using the lowest effective dose for the shortest feasible duration, with careful monitoring. Patients and clinicians should weigh benefits against risks and evaluate alternative options when possible.
Dosing is individualized based on indication, response, and tolerability, but common ranges are well described in guidelines and labeling. For endometriosis, typical total daily doses are 200–800 mg split into two or three doses, often starting at 200 mg twice daily. Many clinicians aim to taper to the lowest dose that maintains pain control over a 3–6 month course. Repeat courses may be considered if symptoms recur, recognizing cumulative risk with longer exposure.
For fibrocystic breast disease, lower doses are often sufficient: 100–200 mg daily in one or two divided doses for 2–6 months, with the goal of using the minimal dose that relieves mastalgia. As symptoms improve, a gradual reduction can identify the maintenance dose, if continued therapy is needed.
In hereditary angioedema prophylaxis, higher initiation doses (e.g., 200 mg two or three times daily) may be used for short periods to stabilize patients, followed by a stepwise reduction to the lowest effective maintenance dose, commonly 50–200 mg daily. For short-term prophylaxis (e.g., dental procedures), clinicians may prescribe a brief course before and after the trigger to prevent attacks.
Danazol is usually taken with food to lessen gastrointestinal upset and improve absorption; a consistent meal schedule helps stabilize blood levels. Swallow capsules whole. If a dose adjustment is required, clinicians often make small changes at weekly intervals while monitoring side effects and clinical response. Do not stop abruptly in HAE without a plan; sudden withdrawal can precipitate attacks. Follow your clinician’s instructions precisely and attend scheduled monitoring visits.
Danazol’s androgenic and hepatic effects necessitate baseline and periodic monitoring. Before starting, obtain liver function tests, lipid profile, complete blood count, and blood pressure. Recheck periodically (e.g., every 1–3 months initially), and more frequently if abnormalities emerge. Because danazol can raise LDL and lower HDL, patients with cardiovascular risk factors require careful risk stratification and potential lipid-lowering strategies.
Danazol is teratogenic. It is strictly contraindicated in pregnancy and should not be used during breastfeeding. People who can become pregnant must have a negative pregnancy test before initiation and use reliable non-hormonal contraception throughout treatment and for a period after the last dose as advised by their clinician. Hormonal contraceptives may be less reliable or interact; barrier or copper IUD options are generally preferred during danazol therapy.
Monitor for signs of hepatic dysfunction, such as dark urine, jaundice, persistent nausea, right upper quadrant pain, or unexplained fatigue. Rare but serious events like peliosis hepatis or hepatic adenoma have been reported with prolonged androgen use. Promptly report severe abdominal pain or unexplained anemia, and suspend therapy while being evaluated if concerning symptoms arise.
Androgenic effects can be dose limiting, especially in women. Watch for acne, seborrhea, hirsutism, scalp hair thinning, voice deepening, and menstrual irregularities. Some changes, particularly voice deepening or clitoromegaly, can be permanent. Early recognition and dose reduction or discontinuation can minimize long-term impact. Mood shifts, irritability, or sleep changes should also be discussed promptly.
Use caution in patients with diabetes or insulin resistance; danazol can alter glucose tolerance and may necessitate adjustments to diabetes therapy. Those with migraine, seizure disorders, hypertension, fluid retention, or a history of thromboembolism need tailored risk assessments. Athletes should be aware that danazol is an androgen and may violate anti-doping regulations; it should never be used for performance enhancement. As with any prescription medicine, decisions should be made in partnership with a licensed clinician who knows your medical history.
Do not use danazol in pregnancy, breastfeeding, active or severe liver disease, significant renal or cardiac disease, undiagnosed genital bleeding, porphyria, or with known hypersensitivity to danazol. Androgen-dependent tumors (such as certain prostate or male breast cancers) are also contraindications. Patients with a history of thromboembolic disease or markedly uncontrolled hypertension generally should avoid danazol unless a specialist determines benefits outweigh risks and implements stringent monitoring.
Because danazol can suppress gonadotropins and alter lipids and liver enzymes, it is inappropriate for routine long-term use in individuals with high baseline cardiovascular risk or serious hepatic impairment. Alternative therapies should be prioritized in these settings.
Common side effects include weight gain, acne, oily skin, flushing, edema, decreased breast size, menstrual irregularities or amenorrhea, hot flashes, and libido changes. Gastrointestinal complaints such as nausea or abdominal discomfort may occur, especially when taken without food. Headache and dizziness are reported, and some patients experience fatigue or sleep disturbance.
Androgenic effects are more pronounced at higher doses and longer durations. Hirsutism, voice deepening, or clitoromegaly can appear; although many effects are reversible after discontinuation, voice changes may persist. Danazol can also alter laboratory values, including increases in liver enzymes, reductions in HDL with increases in LDL, and changes in thyroid function tests (e.g., reduced T4-binding globulin) without true hypothyroidism. Healthcare professionals interpret these shifts in clinical context.
Serious but uncommon adverse events include cholestatic jaundice, hepatic adenoma, peliosis hepatis, thromboembolic events, intracranial hypertension (pseudotumor cerebri), and severe hypertension. Seek urgent care for sudden severe headache with visual changes, chest pain, unilateral limb swelling, new neurologic deficits, or yellowing of the skin/eyes. If worrisome symptoms develop, stop the medication and contact a clinician promptly for evaluation.
Danazol can interact with numerous medications via hepatic enzyme effects and additive toxicity. It may increase levels of calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine, tacrolimus), raising nephrotoxicity risk; close trough monitoring and dose adjustments are required. Concomitant use with certain statins (e.g., simvastatin, lovastatin) can elevate the risk of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis; alternative lipid-lowering agents or careful monitoring is advised.
Danazol can potentiate the anticoagulant effect of warfarin; check INR frequently when initiating, adjusting, or discontinuing danazol, and titrate warfarin accordingly. Interactions with anticonvulsants (phenytoin, carbamazepine) are reported, potentially altering serum levels. Co-administration with corticosteroids may increase edema; with insulin or oral hypoglycemics, danazol can affect glycemic control, necessitating tighter glucose monitoring.
Avoid combining danazol with estrogen-containing therapies or other androgens, as these combinations can blunt therapeutic goals or amplify side effects. Alcohol and other hepatotoxic agents may compound liver risk. Always provide a comprehensive medication and supplement list to your clinician and pharmacist to screen for interactions before starting danazol.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember with food unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal schedule. Do not double up to catch up, as this may increase side effect risk without added benefit.
There is no specific antidote for danazol overdose. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fluid retention, or pronounced androgenic effects. If an overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately or contact a poison control center. Management is supportive: stabilize airway, breathing, and circulation, treat symptoms, and monitor liver function, blood pressure, and electrolytes.
Store danazol capsules at controlled room temperature (generally 20–25°C/68–77°F), away from moisture and excessive heat, and in the original container with the lid tightly closed. Protect from light and keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date, and dispose of unused medication via take-back programs when available.
Across subreddits focused on endometriosis and hereditary angioedema, discussions of danazol often frame it as an effective but “old-school” option. Users with HAE describe fewer swelling attacks once stabilized, though many emphasize the importance of titrating to the lowest effective maintenance dose. People treated for endometriosis or severe mastalgia commonly note pain relief but are candid about androgenic side effects such as acne, weight gain, and voice deepening, prompting some to discontinue or switch to alternatives.
A recurring theme is risk–benefit balancing: those who find danazol transformative tend to have refractory disease or lack access to newer agents, while others opt for GnRH analogs, progestins, or targeted HAE therapies to avoid androgenic effects. Several threads stress strict contraception requirements, regular lab monitoring (lipids, LFTs), and caution with statins and warfarin. As with any social media content, personal anecdotes vary; medical decisions should rely on clinician guidance.
Patient reviews summarized on WebMD reflect mixed experiences that track with clinical data. Many users managing endometriosis or fibrocystic breast pain report notable symptom improvement within weeks, sometimes calling danazol the first therapy that made daily activities tolerable. However, tolerability is a concern: users frequently mention oily skin, acne, weight changes, and mood shifts. Some women report permanent voice changes, underscoring the need for informed consent and close follow-up.
For hereditary angioedema, several reviewers describe dramatic reductions in attack frequency and intensity. Others discontinued due to rising cholesterol or abnormal liver tests detected on monitoring. Overall, WebMD comments highlight the importance of individualized dosing, routine labs, and a clear exit strategy if side effects emerge—points that align with professional practice recommendations.
In the United States, danazol is a prescription-only medicine. Selling or obtaining danazol without a valid prescription is not permitted. That said, a “prescription” does not have to be a paper script from an in‑person visit: under federal and state telehealth laws, a licensed clinician may evaluate you remotely, determine medical necessity, and, if appropriate, issue an electronic prescription that is then filled by a licensed pharmacy.
Nunzia Pharmaceutical offers a legal and structured pathway to access danazol by connecting consumers to credentialed clinicians for an online evaluation. If a clinician confirms that danazol is appropriate and safe, a legitimate prescription is issued and the medication is dispensed through compliant channels. There is no true “no-prescription” sale; instead, Nunzia streamlines the process so eligible adults can complete the required medical review without a traditional office visit.
For your safety, avoid websites that advertise danazol without any medical review or prescription—they may be illegal and risky. Use only accredited services, verify licensure, and ensure the process includes identity verification, a health questionnaire, and follow-up access to a clinician. This preserves the legal safeguards around controlled access while maintaining convenience and continuity of care.
Danazol is an attenuated androgen that suppresses pituitary gonadotropins (LH and FSH), lowers estrogen production, and increases hepatic synthesis of C1 esterase inhibitor. This reduces endometriosis activity and helps prevent hereditary angioedema attacks.
Danazol is used for endometriosis and to prevent hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks. It has been used for fibrocystic breast disease in the past but is less common now due to side effects and availability of alternatives.
Avoid danazol if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have severe liver, kidney, or heart disease, have androgen-dependent tumors, porphyria, unexplained vaginal bleeding, or active thrombosis. It is generally avoided in children and used cautiously in adolescents.
Doses vary by condition. For endometriosis, total daily doses often range 200–800 mg in divided doses for about 6 months. For HAE prophylaxis, 200 mg two to three times daily is common initially, then reduced to the lowest effective dose. Follow your prescriber’s instructions.
For endometriosis, pain improvement may begin within 4–8 weeks, with maximal benefit by 3 months. For hereditary angioedema, attack frequency often decreases within days to weeks after starting therapy.
Common effects include weight gain, acne, oily skin, flushing, decreased breast size, hot flashes, mood changes, menstrual irregularities or amenorrhea, headache, and muscle cramps. Androgenic effects like increased body hair can occur.
Serious but less common risks include liver toxicity (cholestatic jaundice, hepatic adenomas, peliosis hepatis), blood clots, stroke, intracranial hypertension (severe headache/vision changes), unfavorable lipid changes (low HDL), and irreversible voice deepening.
Yes. Danazol suppresses ovulation and often stops periods during treatment. Fertility usually returns after stopping, but contraception is essential while on therapy. In men, danazol may reduce sperm count temporarily.
No. Danazol is teratogenic and contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation. A negative pregnancy test is needed before starting, and effective nonhormonal contraception should be used during treatment and for a period after stopping as advised.
Baseline and periodic liver function tests, lipid panel, blood pressure, and pregnancy tests are recommended. Your clinician may monitor for androgenic effects, mood changes, and, with prolonged use, consider liver imaging if indicated.
Danazol can inhibit CYP3A4 and CYP2C9, raising levels of drugs like cyclosporine, tacrolimus, warfarin, and certain statins, increasing toxicity risks. It can worsen glycemic control with antidiabetic drugs and may interact with anticonvulsants and benzodiazepines. Always review your medication list with a clinician.
Weight gain and fluid retention are common. Mood changes, irritability, and fatigue can occur. If mood symptoms are significant or persistent, discuss dose adjustment or alternatives with your prescriber.
Danazol can lower HDL (“good”) cholesterol and may raise LDL, potentially increasing cardiovascular risk with long-term use. Regular lipid monitoring and risk mitigation are important.
Yes. Danazol can harm a developing fetus. Use reliable nonhormonal contraception (such as condoms or a copper IUD). Hormonal contraceptives may be less effective or counteracted by danazol’s mechanism.
If you miss a dose, take it when remembered unless it’s near the next dose. Do not double up. Danazol does not require tapering for most uses, but your clinician will guide dose reductions, especially when finding the lowest effective dose for HAE.
Danazol can be used for HAE in men; monitor for acne, lipid changes, liver effects, and potential fertility effects. In adolescents, it is used cautiously due to concerns about growth and bone maturation; specialists should oversee care.
Yes. Taking danazol with food increases absorption. Aim for consistent use with respect to meals to maintain steady levels.
Voice deepening and hoarseness can occur and may be irreversible, especially with higher doses or longer use. Report voice changes promptly.
It increases C1 esterase inhibitor levels, reducing swelling episodes. Clinicians start with an effective dose (often 200 mg two to three times daily) and then reduce to the lowest dose that keeps attacks controlled while monitoring side effects.
For HAE, options include C1 esterase inhibitor replacement (intravenous or subcutaneous), lanadelumab, and berotralstat. For endometriosis, options include progestins, combined hormonal contraceptives, GnRH analogs/antagonists, and surgery when appropriate.
Both are attenuated androgens that reduce HAE attacks. Danazol is more commonly used and studied; stanozolol can be effective at lower milligram doses but has similar androgenic and lipid side effects. Choice depends on availability, tolerance, and clinician experience.
Both can cause acne, hirsutism, menstrual suppression, voice change, and adverse lipid shifts. Some patients report fewer virilizing effects with stanozolol at low doses, but data are limited, and liver and lipid risks remain. Close monitoring is needed with either.
Danazol is the standard attenuated androgen for HAE prophylaxis and endometriosis. Oxandrolone has been used off-label for HAE in select cases but is less studied for these indications. Clinicians typically favor danazol unless intolerance occurs.
All attenuated androgens can be hepatotoxic, with risks of cholestasis and rare hepatic tumors. Danazol and oxandrolone both require liver monitoring; comparative hepatotoxicity data are limited, so the safer agent is the one at the lowest effective dose with careful surveillance.
All can lower HDL and raise LDL, with stanozolol often noted to depress HDL substantially even at low doses. Danazol also lowers HDL, and oxandrolone is not exempt. Regular lipid monitoring and cardiovascular risk management are essential for all three.
Both are androgenic antigonadotropins that reduce estrogen activity and endometriosis symptoms. Gestrinone is not widely available or approved in many countries. Danazol has more published safety data but also notable androgenic side effects. Access and regulatory status often drive the choice.
All carry risk, especially at higher doses and longer durations. Stanozolol may pose a higher virilization risk at performance-enhancing doses; in therapeutic ranges, risk exists with each. Early recognition and dose adjustment are critical.
Danazol is typically given in divided daily doses. Stanozolol can also be divided; some regimens use once or twice daily dosing depending on response. Practical convenience is similar, but individualized titration matters more than nominal frequency.
Danazol is a more recognized inhibitor of CYP3A4/2C9, raising interaction risks with drugs like cyclosporine, tacrolimus, warfarin, and certain statins. Stanozolol may have fewer documented CYP interactions, but caution and medication review are still necessary with either.
Yes. Both are contraindicated in pregnancy and can harm a fetus. Nonhormonal contraception is recommended during treatment and for a period after stopping, as advised by a clinician.
Tolerance varies. Some women may experience less fluid retention with oxandrolone, while others tolerate danazol better. Both can cause acne, hirsutism, menstrual suppression, and voice change. The lowest effective dose and close monitoring guide tolerability.
They are similar: baseline and periodic liver function tests, lipid panels, blood pressure checks, pregnancy testing in people who could conceive, and monitoring for androgenic effects. Frequency may be higher early in therapy or at higher doses.
Danazol is approved in many regions for endometriosis and HAE prophylaxis. Stanozolol and oxandrolone have differing approvals (often for catabolic states or anemia) and may be used off-label for HAE; availability varies by country, which influences selection.
No single agent is best for every patient. Danazol is most established for HAE and endometriosis; stanozolol and oxandrolone are options when danazol is not tolerated or available. Efficacy, side effects, comorbidities, interactions, and patient priorities should guide the choice.