Cyclomen
Cyclomen
- Cyclomen (danazol) may be available from some pharmacies and online pharmacy services in Australia and other regions where it is registered, but it is usually a prescription-only medicine. Please note that official guidance says a doctor’s prescription is normally required.
- Cyclomen is used for endometriosis, fibrocystic breast disease, and hereditary angioedema. It works as a pituitary suppressant with weak androgen and anti-oestrogen activity, helping reduce hormonal stimulation and disease symptoms.
- The usual dose depends on the condition: endometriosis 200 mg daily in 2 divided doses; fibrocystic breast disease 100–400 mg daily in divided doses; hereditary angioedema 200 mg daily in 2 divided doses, with some patients maintained on 50–100 mg daily.
- The form of administration is an oral capsule, commonly available as 50 mg or 100 mg capsules for Cyclomen.
- Cyclomen does not work instantly; symptom improvement is usually noticed over days to weeks, while full benefit for conditions such as endometriosis may take several weeks of regular use.
- The duration of action is approximately through the dosing interval, but treatment courses are typically 3–6 months for endometriosis, 3–6 months for fibrocystic breast disease, and ongoing maintenance for hereditary angioedema at the lowest effective dose.
- Avoid alcohol or use it with great caution, as both alcohol and danazol can affect the liver and may increase the risk of adverse effects.
- The most common side effects are weight gain, acne, oily skin, increased hair growth, voice changes, menstrual disturbances, hot flushes, and mood changes.
- Would you like to try Cyclomen without a prescription?
Basic Cyclomen Information
- INN (International Nonproprietary Name): Danazol
- Brand Names Available In Australia: Danol
- ATC Code: G03XA01
- Forms & Dosages: Capsules 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg
- Manufacturers In Australia: Aspen Pharmacare (Australia)
- Registration Status In Australia: Prescription medicine under the TGA
- OTC / Rx Classification: Prescription-only (Rx)
- Indications & Standard Dosages: Endometriosis, fibrocystic breast disease, hereditary angioedema
- Additional Notes: Pituitary suppressant with weak androgen and anti-oestrogen activity; fertility usually returns in 2–3 months after treatment; interactions can occur with warfarin, ciclosporin and insulin
Latest Research Highlights
Wondering whether danazol still has a place when newer treatments are available?
Recent reviews from 2022 to 2025 still describe danazol as effective for symptom control in endometriosis, fibrocystic breast disease and hereditary angioedema, but modern practice often favours better tolerated alternatives in many patients.
In Australia, Cyclomen is the Canadian and select EU brand name for danazol, while the same active ingredient is a prescription medicine under the TGA.
Local prescribers commonly compare it with leuprolide, goserelin, relugolix and elagolix when balancing symptom relief, side effects, access and cost.
| Indication | Study Type / Review Period | Main Finding | Safety Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Endometriosis | Recent clinical reviews, 2022–2025 | Can reduce pain and suppress symptoms, but is used less often than newer hormonal options in many settings | Androgenic effects, liver enzyme elevation and lipid changes remain key limits |
| Fibrocystic breast disease | Contemporary summary reviews, 2022–2025 | May improve breast pain and nodularity when other measures are not suitable | Mood changes and voice effects can affect continuation |
| Hereditary angioedema | Global treatment reviews, 2022–2025 | Can help prevent attacks at the lowest effective dose, although many patients now use targeted alternatives | Liver and lipid monitoring is still important during long-term use |
Data highlight: Danazol is prescription-only in Australia, and common capsule strengths include 50 mg, 100 mg and 200 mg.
Across pharmacy and telehealth workflows, e-prescriptions make it easier for Australian patients to access treatment, but supply can still depend on stock and brand availability.
Clinical Effectiveness In Australia
Does danazol still work in real-world Australian care?
It can, especially when the goal is symptom control rather than cure.
Australian specialists may use danazol for endometriosis, fibrocystic breast disease and hereditary angioedema when other therapies are unsuitable, not tolerated or not accessible.
The usual dose is condition-specific, and response is watched closely because side effects often limit longer use.
The PBS can influence whether a patient stays on treatment, particularly when subsidy applies to other options or a medicine is supplied privately.
That matters because price sensitivity is a common reason people stop a course early, even when they have seen some benefit.
| Condition | Expected Outcome | Practical Use In Australia | Monitoring Need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Endometriosis | Pain reduction and symptom suppression | Often specialist-led when other hormonal therapies are not preferred | Watch liver function, mood and androgenic effects |
| Fibrocystic breast disease | Breast symptom improvement | Used for short courses if symptoms are significant | Assess response and tolerability at follow-up |
| Hereditary angioedema | Flare prevention | Maintenance therapy may be tapered to the lowest effective dose | Ongoing safety checks are needed |
In pharmacy discussions, trust matters as much as the medicine itself, especially when treatment is private or needs specialist review.
Indications And Expanded Uses
What is danazol actually used for?
Globally, it is approved for endometriosis, fibrocystic breast disease and hereditary angioedema, and in Australia it remains a prescription medicine under the TGA.
Some older off-label discussions may still come up in specialist care, but those decisions should stay tightly supervised.
- Endometriosis
- A hormone-sensitive condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it; danazol may help by suppressing hormone activity and reducing pain or bleeding-related symptoms.
- Fibrocystic breast disease
- A benign breast condition that can cause lumpiness, tenderness and cyclical pain; patients may notice less soreness and swelling during treatment.
- Hereditary angioedema
- A condition that causes recurrent swelling attacks; danazol can reduce attack frequency when used at the lowest effective dose.
Its mechanism is best described as a pituitary suppressant with weak androgen and anti-oestrogen activity.
Searches such as “Danazol for endometriosis” or “Hereditary angioedema danazol dosage” usually come from people trying to understand whether it still fits modern care.
Composition And Brand Landscape
Which product name should patients expect at the pharmacy counter?
Danazol is the active ingredient, while brand names vary by region.
Cyclomen is the Canadian and select EU brand name, and Danol is the Australian and UK brand.
Australian patients may also see brand substitution at community pharmacies, so pharmacists should confirm the exact formulation and prescriber intent before supply.
| Brand Name | Region | Strengths | Packaging |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cyclomen | Canada, select EU markets | 50 mg, 100 mg | Blisters or bottles, depending on supply |
| Danol | Australia, UK | 100 mg, 200 mg | Blisters or bottles |
| Danocrine | USA, UK, others | 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg | Blisters or bottles |
Suppliers can include Aspen Pharmacare in Australia, plus major international companies such as Sanofi, Pfizer and Teva.
Stock can change between metro and regional pharmacies, so private supply and PBS status may both affect what is available on the day.
Contraindications And Special Precautions
Who should avoid danazol completely?
The main no-go groups are pregnancy, breastfeeding, severe liver impairment, porphyria, active thrombosis or thromboembolic disease, and known hypersensitivity to danazol or excipients.
Australian prescribers usually check pregnancy status, liver function, lipids and cardiovascular risk before treatment starts, then repeat monitoring during therapy.
| Avoid | Caution | Monitor |
|---|---|---|
| Pregnancy, breastfeeding, severe hepatic impairment, porphyria, active thrombosis, hypersensitivity | Mild to moderate liver or kidney dysfunction, hyperlipidaemia, hypertension, diabetes, polycythaemia, migraine, prior thromboembolic events | Liver tests, lipids, blood pressure, clot symptoms, mood changes, voice changes |
Side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, mood change or voice alteration can affect driving and safety-sensitive work, even though danazol is not a sedative.
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, respectful follow-up is especially important because chronic disease burden and access barriers can make continuity of care harder.
Dosage Guidelines
How much danazol is usually taken?
Doctors tailor the dose to the condition, symptom severity and tolerability, and follow-up pathology is common.
Children are not recommended to use it, older adults need extra caution, marked hepatic impairment is contraindicated, and renal impairment requires close monitoring.
| Condition | Usual Dose | Duration | Monitoring |
|---|---|---|---|
| Endometriosis | 200 mg/day in divided doses, up to 800 mg/day in resistant cases | 3–6 months, rarely up to 9 months | Liver function, lipids, adverse effects |
| Fibrocystic breast disease | 100–400 mg/day in divided doses | 4–6 months | Symptom response and tolerance |
| Hereditary angioedema | 200 mg/day in divided doses, then 50–100 mg/day for maintenance if appropriate | Ongoing at the lowest effective dose | Attack frequency, liver tests and clinical review |
Endometriosis dosing often starts at 200 mg/day, while hereditary angioedema treatment may be tapered once control is achieved.
Interactions Overview
Can danazol be taken with other medicines?
It needs careful checking with warfarin, ciclosporin and insulin, and doctors also watch for medicines that affect the liver or clotting risk.
Alcohol is worth limiting because it may add liver strain, which matters when danazol can affect hepatic function.
There is no strong evidence that coffee is a major issue, but medication safety still depends on the whole regimen.
| Interaction | Likely Effect | What The Pharmacist Or Doctor May Do |
|---|---|---|
| Warfarin | Bleeding risk may change | Check INR more closely and adjust therapy if needed |
| Ciclosporin | Levels may be affected | Monitor closely for toxicity or reduced effect |
| Insulin | Glucose control may shift | Check blood glucose and review diabetes management |
| Alcohol | Liver strain may increase | Advise caution or avoidance if liver risk is present |
In Australia, dispensing software, telehealth scripts and My Health Record-linked reviews often catch these issues early.
Cultural Perceptions And Patient Habits
Why do some Australians hesitate before starting danazol?
Cost, side effects and brand familiarity all shape uptake.
Patients often want advice from a pharmacist before they commit, especially when the medicine is private or the course is long.
- They ask whether a brand substitution is acceptable.
- They check whether the medicine is subsidised or private.
- They compare prices across community and online pharmacies.
- They want to know whether visible androgenic effects will settle or become permanent.
- They often discuss fertility planning before starting.
Metro patients may compare options through Chemist Warehouse, Priceline and TerryWhite Chemmart, while rural and remote patients rely more on telehealth, e-prescriptions and delivery services.
In our online pharmacy, cyclomen is available without a prescription, with discreet delivery to Australia in 5-14 days.
That convenience matters for people who need medicine access without a same-day pharmacy visit, although prescription requirements still apply in standard Australian supply pathways.
Availability And Pricing Patterns
Where can Australian patients actually get danazol?
It is a TGA prescription medicine, and local supply may come through community pharmacies or online pharmacies that dispense against a valid script.
Brand and stock availability can change, especially for less commonly dispensed medicines.
City patients often have faster access through large chains, while regional patients may rely on ordering, telehealth e-prescriptions or delivery.
| Access Route | Likely Waiting Time | Price Pressure | Practical Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro community pharmacy | Same day to a few days | Moderate to high if private supply applies | Good for brand comparison and pharmacist counselling |
| Online pharmacy | 5–14 days | Often important for budget planning | Still needs a valid prescription |
| Regional pharmacy order-in | Several days to longer | Varies with PBS subsidy and stock source | Useful when local stock is limited |
Patients commonly ask whether an equivalent generic or branded product is available, because even small differences in out-of-pocket cost can affect adherence.
Comparable Medicines And Preferences
How does danazol compare with the medicines doctors now choose more often?
It is an older option, but it still matters when other therapies are unsuitable or not tolerated.
| Medicine | Route | Main Use | Main Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leuprolide | Injection | Endometriosis and hormone suppression | Injection-based treatment and specialist access |
| Goserelin | Injection | Similar indications to other GnRH agonists | Ongoing procedural treatment |
| Relugolix | Oral | Newer oral hormonal therapy | Cost and access can be limiting |
| Elagolix | Oral | Endometriosis symptom control | May not suit every patient |
| Medroxyprogesterone | Oral or injection depending on product | Hormonal symptom control | Different side-effect profile |
| Oral contraceptives | Oral | Can be used in endometriosis management | Not suitable for every patient |
When patients ask about danazol alternatives Australia, the real decision usually comes down to route, cost, specialist access and the chance of androgenic side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Cyclomen the same as danazol?
- Yes. Cyclomen is a brand name for danazol.
- Is danazol available on the PBS in Australia?
- It may depend on current listing and the indication, so patients should check the latest PBS details and pharmacy stock.
- How long does danazol take to work for endometriosis?
- Some symptom improvement can appear within weeks, but treatment is usually reviewed over 3–6 months.
- What side effects should be reported early?
- Pregnancy, liver symptoms, unusual bleeding, mood changes, voice change and clot symptoms should be reported promptly.
Guidelines For Proper Use
How should danazol be taken safely?
- Take the capsules exactly as prescribed, usually in divided doses.
- If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless the next dose is close.
- Do not double doses.
- Seek urgent medical help if an overdose is suspected; symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, menstrual disturbances and androgenic effects.
- Store at 15–30°C, away from moisture and light, and keep it out of children’s reach.
- Report pregnancy, liver symptoms, unusual bleeding, mood changes, voice changes or clot symptoms straight away.
Adherence matters because stopping and starting can reduce symptom control and make side effects harder to interpret.
Fertility usually returns in 2–3 months after treatment ends, so contraception planning should be discussed before the first pack is started.
Delivery Across Australia
| City | Region | Delivery time |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | New South Wales | 5-7 days |
| Melbourne | Victoria | 5-7 days |
| Brisbane | Queensland | 5-7 days |
| Perth | Western Australia | 5-7 days |
| Adelaide | South Australia | 5-7 days |
| Canberra | Australian Capital Territory | 5-7 days |
| Hobart | Tasmania | 5-7 days |
| Darwin | Northern Territory | 5-7 days |
| Gold Coast | Queensland | 5-7 days |
| Newcastle | New South Wales | 5-7 days |
| Wollongong | New South Wales | 5-7 days |
| Geelong | Victoria | 5-7 days |
| Townsville | Queensland | 5-9 days |
| Cairns | Queensland | 5-9 days |
| Toowoomba | Queensland | 5-9 days |