Megace (Megestrol Acetate)

Description

Indications

Megestrol tablets serve as a palliative treatment to alleviate the symptoms of advanced breast and endometrial cancers. Megestrol suspension is used to address malnutrition, loss of appetite, and severe weight loss among patients with AIDS. This medication is a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone, which is involved in the growth of female hormones related to cancer. Megestrol aids in weight gain by enhancing appetite.

Uses and Dosage

Megestrol is available in tablet form, as an oral suspension which are both taken orally. The tablets and suspension are typically taken multiple times daily, while the concentrated suspension is taken once daily. Take megestrol at consistent times each day. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully, and seek clarification from your physician or pharmacist for any unclear directions. Take megestrol precisely as prescribed, neither exceeding nor falling short of the dosage, and avoid taking it more frequently than advised by your doctor.

Before using the liquid suspension, shake it thoroughly to ensure even mixing of the medication.

The concentrated suspension is not interchangeable with the regular suspension, and it should only be taken according to the dosage directed by your physician.

Do not stop the use of megestrol without consulting your doctor first.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• impotence
• decreased sexual desire
• unexpected vaginal bleeding
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• gas
• rash

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• nausea
• vomiting
• dizziness
• weakness
• blurred vision
• extreme thirst
• frequent urination
• extreme hunger
• difficulty breathing
• sharp, crushing chest pain or heaviness in chest
• slow or difficult speech
• weakness or numbness of an arm or leg

Caution

Before taking megestrol, inform your physician or pharmacist if you have an allergy to this medication or any other allergies. This product may contain inactive components that can cause allergic reactions or other complications.

Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly adrenal gland issues such as Cushing’s syndrome, blood clots, diabetes, heart disease such as congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, kidney disease, stomach or abdominal problems, or unusual vaginal bleeding.

If you have diabetes, megestrol may affect your blood sugar levels. Regularly monitor your blood sugar as directed and communicate the findings with your doctor. If you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, inform your doctor. You may need to modify your diabetes medication, exercise regimen, or diet.

Prolonged use of megestrol can make your body less responsive to physical stress. Before undergoing surgery or emergency treatment or if you experience a severe illness/injury, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medication or have recently stopped using it.

Older individuals may be more prone to the side effects of this medication, particularly the danger of blood clots.

Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant. You should avoid becoming pregnant while taking megestrol since it may harm an unborn child. Your doctor should order a pregnancy test before commencing this medication.

Ask about dependable methods of birth control while using this medication. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately to discuss the risks and benefits of continuing with this medication.

Since this medication can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and can cause harm to an unborn child, pregnant or potentially pregnant women should avoid handling this medication or inhaling the dust from the tablets.

This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Megace is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Megace tablet:
  • 160mg
• megestrol tablet:
  • 40mg
  • 160mg

FAQ

Can Megace be stopped abruptly?

Don’t stop taking Megace suddenly without talking to your doctor since it can be very dangerous or life-threatening. You will need to lower your dose slowly.

How long does it take Megace to start working?

It may take up to 3 weeks to first notice an improved appetite. It may take up to 12 weeks to notice weight gain.

Resources

1. https://www.goodrx.com/health
2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19169-megestrol-suspension#:~:text=It%20may%20take%20up%20to,can%20cause%20serious%20birth%20defects
3. https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/megace-os
4. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682003.html
5. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6899-136/megace-oral/megestrol-oral/details
6. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/megestrol.html