What Are the Hazards of Long-Term Use of Danazol?

Long-term use of danazol is prone to causing nausea, hirsutism, acne, headache, and breast atrophy. Endometrial atrophy, amenorrhea, and anovulation can be treated with danazol under the guidance of a doctor, and the effect is generally good. However, short-term use is recommended, and long-term use is not advisable. If adverse effects occur, it is recommended to stop the medication promptly.

The side effects of long-term use of danazol mainly include nausea, headache, hot flashes, breast atrophy, weight gain, decreased libido, hirsutism, acne, increased sebum, and muscle spasms, which are generally tolerable.

Since the drug is mainly metabolized in the liver, it is generally not suitable for individuals with liver dysfunction. Additionally, it is also contraindicated for individuals with hypertension, heart failure, and renal insufficiency.

Danazol is a synthetic 17α-ethynyltestosterone derivative that can inhibit the peak levels of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, suppress ovarian synthesis of steroidal hormones, leading to endometrial atrophy and amenorrhea, also known as pseudo-menopausal therapy. It is generally used for patients with mild to moderate endometriosis pain.

During the use of danazol, it is necessary to monitor liver function monthly due to its metabolism in the liver. If transaminase levels are high or liver function is abnormal, the medication should be discontinued, and liver-protecting treatment should be administered.