Indications
Danocrine is a medication used to treat endometriosis, fibrocystic breast disease, and hereditary angioedema. It contains the active ingredient danazol, which is a synthetic steroid derived from ethisterone that has a structure similar to testosterone. Danazol belongs to the class of antigonadotropic agents and works by decreasing the amount of hormones in the body.
Danocrine is also used to prevent attacks of hereditary angioedema, which is an immune system disorder that causes severe swelling of various parts of the body. It is taken orally in capsule form, typically two to three times a day, and the dosage may vary depending on the condition being treated.
Use and Dosage
Danocrine and its generic verision Danazol come as tablet and capsule form respectively to take by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily. Both the tablet and the capsule are available with strengths of 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg and are typically taken orally. You can take the tablet or capsule with or without food but choose one way and take the medication the same way with every dose.
The recommended dosages of Danocrine (danazol) can vary depending on the condition being treated and the individual's response to the medication. However, the usual dosages are as follows:
For endometriosis:
- Starting dosage: 800 to 1200 mg per day, divided into two doses, for up to six months
- Maintenance dosage: 200 to 400 mg per day, divided into two doses, for up to six months
For fibrocystic breast disease:
- Starting dosage: 100 to 200 mg per day, divided into two doses, for up to six months
- Maintenance dosage: 50 to 200 mg per day, divided into two doses, for up to six months
For hereditary angioedema:
- Starting dosage: 200 mg two or three times a day
- Maintenance dosage: 100 to 600 mg per day, divided into two or three doses
Do not stop taking Danocrine (Danazol) without talking to your doctor. If you have fibrocystic breast disease, breast pain and tenderness usually improve during the first month that you take danazol and go away after 2 to 3 months of treatment; breast lumps should improve after 4 to 6 months of treatment.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Danocrine (Danazol):
- Absence of menstrual cycle, spotting, or change in menstrual cycle
- Acne
- Decrease in breast size
- Flushing
- Irritability
- Nervousness
- Oily skin or hair
- Sweating
- Vaginal dryness, burning, itching, or bleeding
- Weight gain
Serious Side Effects of Danocrine (Danazol):
- Allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- Changes in vision
- Dark urine
- Decrease in breast size
- Deepening of voice, hoarseness, sore throat, increase in facial hair, baldness, or swelling of the arms or legs (in women)
- Hair loss or unusual hair growth
- Headache
- Irregular vaginal bleeding
- Nausea
- Red, peeling, or blistering skin
- Redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
- Spotting
- Stomach pain
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Unusual swelling of feet or ankles
- Unusually weak or tired
- Voice changes
- Vomiting
- Weight gain
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Forms and Strength
Danocrine (Danazol) is available in the following forms and strength:
Danocrine: Tablet
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
- 200 mg
Danazol: Capsule
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
- 200 mg
Cautions
- Use of Danazol in pregnancy is contraindicated as it may harm the fetus. Danazol should not be used by patients with a history of blood clots, stroke, or liver disease.
- Danazol may cause an increase in liver enzyme levels, and liver function tests should be performed regularly to monitor for any liver damage.
- Danazol may cause fluid retention and edema, which can be dangerous in patients with heart or kidney diseases.
- Danazol may cause menstrual irregularities, and it may take several months for the menstrual cycle to return to normal after stopping the medication.
- Danazol may cause masculinization effects, such as the growth of facial hair and deepening of the voice. Rarely, breast enlargement and galactorrhea may also occur in females. Discuss any medical conditions and medications with your healthcare provider before starting Danazol and report any side effects experienced while taking this medication.
- Danazol may cause anemia by decreasing red blood cell production, and regular blood cell counts should be performed to monitor for any changes.
- Danazol may decrease the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives and increase the risk of unplanned pregnancy, so alternative forms of contraception should be used while taking this medication.
- Danazol may interact with other medications, including blood thinning agents and insulin, disclose all medications to your healthcare provider before starting Danazol.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How should Danocrine be stored?
Danocrine should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. It should be kept out of the reach of children.
How long does it take for Danocrine to start working?
The time it takes for Danocrine to start working may vary depending on the condition being treated. For endometriosis, it may take several months before symptoms improve.
Can Danocrine cause weight gain?
Yes, weight gain is a common side effect of Danocrine.
Is Danocrine addictive?
No, Danocrine is not addictive.
Can Danocrine be used to treat infertility?
Yes, Danocrine can be used to treat infertility in women with endometriosis. It works by suppressing ovulation and reducing the size of endometrial tissue.
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