Oral suspension, Tablet

Apotex, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Generic

Megace (megestrol acetate) is used to treat appetite loss or unexplained, significant weight loss in patients with AIDS, primary or metastatic cancer.

Do not take Megace (megestrol acetate) if you are allergic to any ingredient in Megace (megestrol acetate) you are pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant

Before using Megace (megestrol acetate), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription medicine, nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement if you have blood clots in the legs, lungs, eyes, or a history of these conditions if you have diabetes if you have had a stroke if you have any other medical condition

Shake the container well before use. The use of Megace (megestrol acetate) during the first 4 months of pregnancy is not recommended. Megace (megestrol acetate) is not intended to avoid weight loss.

Other:  Indigestion; excessive hunger, thirst, or urination; frequent urination; stomach pain; infection (fever; chills; sore throat); oral infection; constipation; dry mouth; increased salivation; abnormal skin sensations; confusion; depression; abnormal thinking; cough; hair loss; itching; sweating; skin disorder; difficulty urinating; urinary tract infection; breast enlargement in men; changes in vision.

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Megace (megestrol acetate) you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Carefully read the information provided with Megace (megestrol acetate) and reread it each time you get this prescription refilled. Take Megace (megestrol acetate) exactly as prescribed by your health care provider. Shake Megace (megestrol acetate) well before using. Megace (megestrol acetate) should only be used after treatable causes of weight loss have been ruled out. Women of childbearing potential should avoid becoming pregnant while using Megace (megestrol acetate). Use effective birth control methods while taking Megace (megestrol acetate). Notify your health care provider if you become pregnant. Contact your health care provider at once if lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or weakness occur while you are taking Megace (megestrol acetate). Diabetes patients -- Megace (megestrol acetate) may affect your blood sugar level. Your doctor may need to change the dose of diabetes medicine you are taking. Lab tests may be required to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking Megace (megestrol acetate). Do not stop taking Megace (megestrol acetate) without checking with your doctor. Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your doctor or health care provider. Contact your health care provider if you feel you have taken too much of Megace (megestrol acetate). Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your doctor. This includes any herbal preparations or dietary supplements. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Store Megace (megestrol acetate) between 59 and 77 degrees F. Keep in a tightly closed container. Protect from heat.