GENERIC NAME: megestrol

BRAND NAME: Megace, Megace ES

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Megestrol is in the class of drugs used to fight cancer (antineoplastic) and is a synthetic female hormone belonging to the progesterone group. Progesterone is a hormone produced by the body, especially the female, that helps controls the menstrual period among other body functions.

PRESCRIPTION: yes

GENERIC AVAILABLE: no

PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 20 and 40 mg. Oral suspension: 40 mg per each l ml. Megace ES oral suspension: 625 mg/5 mL

STORAGE: Store in a dry place at room temperature. The oral suspension should be stored in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed container.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Treatment for breast cancer and endometrial carcinoma (cancer of the uterus). It is usually not used as the only treatment but in addition to other cancer therapy. Megestrol is also used for people that have difficulty in maintaining weight in patients with AIDS. For this use megestrol is an appetite stimulant and has thus far only been used in women.

DOSING: Megestrol is given in doses through the day for several months as treatment for cancer. Doses up to 800 mg daily have been used for weight loss. Megestrol can be taken with or without food. Better absorption and blood levels maybe achieved if taken without food. If using the oral suspension it should be shaken (not stirred!) before use.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Megestrol will stimulate the appetite and weight gain is common. This is not water retention but a result of eating more food.

PREGNANCY: This medication may cause birth defects if you are pregnant. It can also interfere with normal hormones and should not be taken if breast feeding. Never use if you are capable of becoming pregnant. Therefore, birth control measures are mandatory if a woman is still fertile while using megestrol.

NURSING MOTHERS: This medication should not be taken if breast feeding.

SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects are nausea, rash, impotency, hypertension and the production of excess gas (flatulence). Less common are insomnia and headache. Increased doses increase the side effects.

Last Editorial Review: 10/16/2005

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