Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Medroxyprogesterone (Provera) and danazol are both prescription medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Medroxyprogesterone is a progestin used to regulate menstrual cycles and protect the uterus from damage in postmenopausal women taking estrogen replacement medication. Danazol, on the other hand, is a gonadotropin inhibitor used to treat endometriosis and hereditary angioedema. Medroxyprogesterone is typically taken once a day for a short duration each month, while danazol is taken itwo to three times a day depending on why you are taking it. Danazol is not a first-choice treatment for endometriosis due to its side effects, which include acne, weight gain, and a deeper voice. Additionally, danazol can cause serious issues like liver damage and blood clots. Medroxyprogesterone can also have side effects like spotting and breast tenderness, but it is generally well-tolerated.
Medroxyprogesterone (Provera)
Danazol
Medroxyprogesterone (Provera)
Danazol
Summary of Provera vs. Danazol
Summary for Progestin
Prescription only
Medroxyprogesterone (Provera) can help make your menstrual cycles more regular. It also helps protect the uterus from harm in people who've gone through menopause and are taking estrogen replacement medications. When taken with estrogen therapy, it has some serious risks that you should consider if you need treatment for a long time.
Summary for Gonadotropin inhibitor
Prescription only
Danazol treats endometriosis (a painful condition involving the tissue of your uterus), but it's not a first-choice medication because of the side effects.
Indications of Provera vs. Danazol
Indications for
•Lack of menstrual periods due to hormone imbalance
•Irregular periods due to hormone imbalance
•Protection of the uterus in postmenopausal women who are taking estrogen medications
Indications for
•Endometriosis (extra tissue growth in and around your uterus)
•Hereditary angioedema (inherited condition that causes swelling in your lips and other body parts)
Pros and Cons of Provera vs. Danazol
Pros and Const for Progestin
Pros
•Taken once a day
•Helps protect the uterus from damage if taking estrogen medications after menopause