| Category: |
Antineoplastics, Hormone, Appetite Stimulant
|
| Product information: |
Generic name: MEGESTROL ACETATE
Composition: Each film coated tablet contains Megestrol Acetate 40 mg / 160 mg
Pharmacological Category: Progestin (Synthetic Progesterone)
Pregnancy Category: X
Lactation: Not recommended
Presentation: 5 x 10’s blister pack
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| INDICATIONS: |
- Advanced breast cancer (especially hormone receptor-positive types)
- Endometrial carcinoma
- Anorexia, cachexia, or unexplained significant weight loss in patients with AIDS or cancer
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| MECHANISM OF ACTION: |
Megestrol Acetate works primarily as a synthetic progestin, but it also exhibits anti-gonadotropic and glucocorticoid-like activity. It helps:
For Cancer-related Cachexia & Anorexia:
- Binds to progesterone receptors
- Enhances appetite via central mechanism
- Leads to increased calorie intake and weight gain
For Hormone-sensitive Cancers:
- Suppresses luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
- Inhibits estrogen-dependent tumor growth in breast/endometrial cancer
↓ Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis suppression
↓ Estrogen production
↓ Tumor stimulation
↓
Tumor regression or slowed progression
|
| Pharmacokinetics: |
Absorption: Well absorbed orally
Bioavailability: High
Onset of action: Within days to weeks (for weight gain)
Metabolism: Hepatic (liver)
Excretion: Primarily via urine and feces
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| Dosage Information: |
Adults: 160 mg/day (divided or once daily) for cancer-related anorexia or cachexia. 40–320 mg/day depending on indication and response for cancer therapy
Note: Dosage must be individualized and supervised by a physician, especially for cancer therapy.
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| Side Effects: |
- Weight gain (desired in some indications)
- Edema (fluid retention)
- Increased blood sugar levels
- Thromboembolic events (DVT, pulmonary embolism)
- Hypertension
- Menstrual irregularities
- Mood changes
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| Contraindications: |
- Pregnancy (Category X – contraindicated)
- Known hypersensitivity to Megestrol Acetate
- Active or recent history of thrombosis or embolism
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| Precautions : |
Use with caution in patients with:
-
- History of thromboembolism
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hypertension
- Monitor weight and blood pressure
- Long-term use can cause adrenal suppression
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