Danazol is a variation of the hormone, testosterone. Danazol works by suppressing the production of oestrogen by the ovaries so that the levels of oestrogen in the body decreases to the low levels found in women after menopause.  The low levels of oestrogen in the body mean that the endometrial implants are no longer stimulated to grow and break down each month, so they may gradually waste away or reduce in size.

Due to the vast range of potential side effects of Danazol, it is not commonly used nowadays to treat endometriosis.

Possible side effects

Some of the side effects of Danazol are due to the fact that it is similar to the testosterone hormone. The most common of these are:

• Weight gain

• Fluid retention

• Acne

• Oily skin and/or hair

• Bloating

• Decreased breast size

• Change in appetite

• Increased facial and/or body hair

• Increased muscle bulk

• Deepening of the voice

• Enlargement of the clitoris

Deepening of the voice, hair growth and enlargement of the clitoris are sometimes irreversible so if you notice any of these side effects contact your health practitioner immediately.

Some of the side effects are due to the low levels of oestrogen in the body. These side effects are commonly associated with menopause and include:

• Hot flushes / night sweats

• Vaginal dryness

• Headaches

Danazol can also cause a range of other side effects including:

• Vaginal bleeding

• Muscle cramps

• Nausea / vomiting

• Depression / mood swings

• Fatigue

• Decreased libido

• Decreased glucose tolerance

• Increased cholesterol levels

• Jaundice / liver disease

Content Updated March 06, 2008