Danazol (By Mouth)

Danazol (DA-na-zole)

Treats endometriosis, fibrocystic breast disease (cysts in the breasts), breast cancer, and hereditary angioedema (swelling of different parts of the body).

Brand Name(s):

Danocrine
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to danazol. You should not use danazol if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or if you have liver, kidney, or heart problems, or unusual vaginal bleeding.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• Take this medicine exactly as your doctor ordered. You should not use more often or in larger amounts than your doctor ordered.
• You should start taking danazol while you are having your period. Otherwise, your doctor may want to do a test to make sure you are not pregnant.

If a dose is missed:

• Skip the missed dose and continue taking your medicine on your regular dosing schedule.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Keep this medicine in the original light-resistant container, away from heat or moisture.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also taking a blood thinner (Coumadin®), carbamazepine, insulin, or cyclosporine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Check with your doctor before taking danazol if you have kidney or liver disease, epilepsy, migraine headaches, or heart disease.
• Avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medicine and for several months after stopping. Use an effective form of birth control.
• This medicine can cause your skin to be more sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen when outdoors. Avoid sunlamps or tanning beds.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Yellow skin or eyes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Weight gain, fluid retention
• Acne
• Irregular menstrual periods
• New growth of facial or body hair
• Dizziness
• Swollen or painful joints

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.