Danazol was historically used for endometriosis but is now rarely prescribed. The principal reason for its decline is:

• A Poor efficacy in relieving pelvic pain
• B High rate of androgenic and hypoestrogenic side effects ✓
• C Increased risk of venous thromboembolism
• D Failure to suppress ovulation

Explanation

Danazol is effective at suppressing endometriotic implants by creating a hypoestrogenic hyperandrogenic state, but it causes weight gain, acne, hirsutism, voice deepening, muscle cramps and mood changes, many irreversible. Newer agents such as dienogest and GnRH analogues offer comparable efficacy with far better tolerability. Danazol does suppress ovulation and carries no major thrombotic risk compared with combined hormonal contraceptives.

Reference: Jeffcoate's Principles of Gynaecology, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.