Megestrol
Written By Dr. Anuj Saini
Reviewed By Dr. Lalit KanodiaLast updated 06 Mar 2020 | 07:08 AM (UTC)
Megestrol Uses
Megestrol is used in breast cancer and endometrial cancer. It specifically helps treat breast and endometrial cancer that are hormone dependent. It may also be used for treating low appetite and weight loss in patients with advanced cancer or HIV.
How Megestrol works
Megestrol is a progestin (female hormone). It works in patients with breast cancer and endometrial cancer by affecting female hormones involved in cancer growth. It causes weight gain by increasing appetite.
Common side effects of Megestrol
Increased appetite, Weight gain, Hot flushes, High blood pressure, Constipation, Increased glucose level in blood
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Expert advice for Megestrol
- Megestrol is used to treat women with certain hormone-dependent cancers such as breast cancer and endometrial cancer.
- It may also be used for treating appetite and weight loss in people with advanced cancer or AIDS.
- You may have to take it for atleast 2 months before you notice any changes in your appetite.
- Your doctor might do regular blood tests to check your hormones and blood sugar levels while you are taking this medicine.
- Do not take Megestrol if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Inform your doctor immediately if you notice unexplained swelling and pain in your limbs, shortness of breath, chest pain, severe headache, or changes in vision. These could be symptoms of a blood clot in a vein.
- Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without talking to your doctor first.
Frequently asked questions for Megestrol
Megestrol works similar to the hormone progesterone, that naturally occurs in your body. It is used in hormone-dependent cancers of breast and endometrium (lining of the uterus). It may also be used to promote appetite and weight gain in AIDS patients.
Take it as per the advice of your doctor. The number of doses you take each day and the duration for which you take it depends on your medical problem. Take your tablet at about the same time everyday to ensure consistent levels of medicine in your body.
If you miss a dose, you should take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose and simply continue the usual dosing schedule. Do not double up your dose to make up for the forgotten one.
Most common side effects of using Megestrol are weight gain and an increase in appetite, shortness of breath, hot flushes (warm face and neck), high blood pressure, increased blood sugar levels, rounded face, and constipation. Most of these are temporary, and go away as soon as the body adjusts to the treatment. However, if these persists, consult with the doctor.