Final answer:
Danazol works to decrease mastalgia by suppressing the pituitary-ovarian axis, which leads to lower estrogen and progesterone levels and results in decreased breast tissue stimulation. This suppression includes inhibiting the surge of LH and FSH and reducing hormone receptors in breast tissue.
Step-by-step explanation:
Danazol is a synthetic androgen that works to decrease mastalgia, which is breast pain often associated with conditions such as fibrocystic breast changes or menstrual cycles. Danazol acts by suppressing the pituitary-ovarian axis, leading to a reduction in estrogen and progesterone levels. This suppression results in decreased breast stimulation, which in turn can reduce the pain and tenderness associated with mastalgia.
Mechanisms by which danazol works include:
- Inhibition of the mid-cycle surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), preventing ovulation.
- Reducing the total number of hormone receptors available in the breast tissue.
- Altering the metabolic processes of the breast, making it less responsive to hormones.
Due to these actions, danazol can effectively decrease the symptoms of mastalgia, offering relief to sufferers.