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Megestrol Acetate: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh
FDA-Approved Indications Anorexia, cachexia, or unexplained significant weight loss in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) - Megestrol Acetate oral suspension is approved for the…
About Megestrol Acetate
Indications of Megestrol Acetate
FDA-Approved Indications
- Anorexia, cachexia, or unexplained significant weight loss in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) - Megestrol Acetate oral suspension is approved for the management of significant involuntary weight loss associated with HIV/AIDS.
- Palliative treatment of advanced breast cancer - Megestrol Acetate tablets are approved for palliative management of advanced, recurrent, or metastatic breast carcinoma in women whose disease has progressed following surgery and/or radiotherapy.
- Palliative treatment of advanced endometrial carcinoma - Megestrol Acetate tablets are approved for palliative management of advanced or recurrent endometrial carcinoma, generally in patients not considered candidates for surgery or radiotherapy.
Guideline-Supported / Commonly Used Off-Label Uses
- Cancer-associated anorexia-cachexia syndrome (non-AIDS malignancies) - Megestrol Acetate is widely used off-label, and supported by some palliative-care and oncology guidelines, as an appetite stimulant to improve weight and quality of life in patients with cancer-related cachexia.
- Anorexia/weight loss in other chronic debilitating conditions - used off-label under close medical supervision when standard measures have failed; the potential benefit of Megestrol Acetate must be individually weighed against thromboembolic and other risks.
Megestrol Acetate is not indicated for the prevention of pregnancy and should never be used as a contraceptive.
Dosage & Administration of Megestrol Acetate
Dosage of Megestrol Acetate by Indication
| Indication | Recommended Dose of Megestrol Acetate |
|---|---|
| Anorexia, cachexia, or unexplained weight loss in AIDS | Oral suspension: initiate at 400-800 mg/day (10-20 mL); usual effective dose is 800 mg/day (20 mL) once daily |
| Advanced/recurrent/metastatic breast cancer (palliative) | Tablets: 160 mg/day, given as 40 mg four times daily |
| Advanced/recurrent endometrial carcinoma (palliative) | Tablets: 40-320 mg/day in divided doses |
A treatment trial of at least two months with Megestrol Acetate is generally recommended before concluding that treatment has failed to produce a response, particularly for the oncologic indications. See Administration and Duration of Treatment for further guidance.
Side Effects of Megestrol Acetate
Common Side Effects
- Weight gain (very common, especially at appetite-stimulant doses of Megestrol Acetate)
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort
- Fluid retention/edema
- Breakthrough uterine bleeding or irregular menstrual spotting
- Hyperglycemia (see Precautions and Warnings)
- Impotence and decreased libido in men; gynecomastia
- Alopecia, rash
Serious/Less Common Side Effects
- Venous thromboembolism - deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism (see Precautions and Warnings)
- Adrenal insufficiency and Cushingoid features with prolonged/high-dose use (see Precautions and Warnings)
- Hypertension
- Rare hepatic dysfunction
Patients taking Megestrol Acetate should seek prompt medical attention for symptoms such as leg swelling/pain, sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or signs of high blood sugar.
Contraindications of Megestrol Acetate
- Known hypersensitivity to Megestrol Acetate or any component of the formulation.
- Known or suspected pregnancy (see Pregnancy and Lactation).
Frequently Asked Questions about Megestrol Acetate
What is Megestrol Acetate used for?
Megestrol Acetate is used to stimulate appetite and promote weight gain in patients with cancer- or AIDS-related anorexia and cachexia, and is also used for the palliative treatment of advanced breast cancer and advanced endometrial cancer.
Can Megestrol Acetate be taken during pregnancy?
No. Megestrol Acetate is contraindicated in known or suspected pregnancy because it may cause fetal harm, including reduced fetal weight and feminization of male fetuses in animal studies. If you are or could be pregnant, tell your physician immediately before starting Megestrol Acetate.
What is the most important risk to know about Megestrol Acetate?
Megestrol Acetate increases the risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism), especially in patients who are immobile or debilitated. Seek immediate medical care for leg swelling/pain, chest pain, or sudden shortness of breath while taking Megestrol Acetate.
Can I stop taking Megestrol Acetate suddenly after using it for a long time?
Not without medical advice. With prolonged use, Megestrol Acetate can suppress the adrenal glands, and stopping it abruptly can cause adrenal insufficiency, which can be serious. Your physician should guide any dose reduction or discontinuation of Megestrol Acetate.
Does Megestrol Acetate affect blood sugar?
Yes. Megestrol Acetate can raise blood glucose levels and may unmask or worsen diabetes. Patients, especially those with diabetes, should monitor blood sugar regularly while taking Megestrol Acetate.
How long does it take for Megestrol Acetate to work?
For appetite stimulation, some improvement may be noted within a few weeks of taking Megestrol Acetate, while for cancer treatment a trial of at least two months of Megestrol Acetate is usually needed before assessing response. Talk to your physician about what to expect.
Disclaimer
The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.