DANAZOL AS A LUTEOLYTIC AGENT

Abstract

Danazol, a synthetic 2,3-isoxazol derivative of 17 .alpha.-ethinyltestosterone, was administered to healthy non-pregnant volunteers to determine whether a luteolytic effect could be detected by observation of cycle length, duration of the luteal rise and luteal steroidogenesis. Danazol administration resulted in a decreased duration of the luteal rise, and a decrease in progesterone output in 3 of 4 subjects, but not decrease in total cycle length. The administration of human chorionic gonadotropin during danazol administration increased progesterone output. Therefore, danazol would be unlikely to be effective as a luteolytic contraceptive agent.