Danogen 50 is used for the treatment of endometriosis. It also helps relieve severe pain and tenderness associated with fibrocystic breast disease. The lining of the uterus is called the endometrium. Part of it is shed during the menstrual cycle. In endometriosis, cells like the uterus or endometrium grow outside the uterus. Some women who experience endometriosis have symptoms such as pelvic pain, painful periods, painful bowel movements, and pain during intercourse. When used to treat endometriosis, Danogen changes the endometrium so that it becomes inactive and shrinks in size. Patients may experience relief from painful symptoms, which usually begin a few weeks after initiating the treatment.

When used for treating fibrocystic breast disease, Danazol relieves pain and tenderness in the breast and may cause nodules to shrink. Pain and tenderness should begin to resolve after about one month. Nodules in the breast do not shrink in size until after 2 to 3 months of treatment.   

After initiating the treatment, Danazol, you will probably have one or more periods. Your periods will then stop while taking Danogen; however, you may have spotting or vaginal bleeding. After you stop treatment, your periods will start again, usually within 2 to 3 months.     

Take the capsule orally with a glass full of water. Follow all the directions carefully. Take this medicine with food to decrease stomach upset. Do not take this medicine more than the recommended amount. Follow your doctor’s advice. Talk to a paediatrician regarding the usage of the medicine in children. Extra caution may be needed.  

Danogen 50 mg capsules should not be used in patients with the following conditions:  

     –   Abnormal vaginal bleeding

     –   Genital or breast tumours,

     –   Liver impairment

     –   Kidney insufficiency

     –   Porphyria

     –   Heart problems

     –   Known allergy to Danazol or any inactive ingredients of the medicine

Also, Danazol capsules should not be used in pregnant women as they can harm the unborn baby. The medicine may increase the risk of cancer of the ovaries or may contribute to liver tumours. Before taking Danazol tablets, talk to your doctor if you have diabetes, epilepsy, liver disorders, kidney impairment, blood clots, migraines, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), had an organ transplant or have recently undergone surgery. 

Side effects of Danogen that you should  discuss with your doctor as soon as possible include:

     –   Allergic reactions like jives, itching, skin rash, swelling of the face, lips or tongue

     –   Dark urine

     –   Changes in vision

     –   Headache

     –   Hair loss or unusual hair growth

     –   Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain

     –   Decrease in breast size

     –   Irregular spotting, vaginal bleeding

     –   Voice changes

     –   Weight gain

     –   Unusual bleeding or bruising

     –   Unusual swelling of feet or ankles

     –   Redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

Side effects that do require medical help include sweating, hot flashes, mood changes, acne, vaginal dryness, or irritation. This information guide may not describe all possible side effects. Contact your healthcare provider for advice about side effects.