Megestrol is used to relieve the symptoms of breast and endometrium cancer at an advanced stage. It is also used to cope with the loss of appetite, malnutrition and severe weight loss in patients with AIDS and, sometimes, in patients with cancer, prostatic hypertrophy, endometriosis and endometrial hyperplasia.
What is Megestrol?
Megestrol is a synthetic version of progesterone hormone. It exerts an anti-cancer activity influencing the action of the hormones involved in the growth of breast cancer and endometrial. It also helps weight gain by stimulating appetite.
How should Megestrol be taken?
Megestrol is administered orally. Generally, the tablets are used to treat the symptoms of cancer; while the concentrated solution is prescribed to patients with AIDS.
Side effects associated with Megestrol
Megestrol may interfere with the menstrual cycle.
Among the other possible adverse effects are included:
- Impotence
- Reduced sex drive
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Insomnia
- Gas
- Rash
You should immediately contact a doctor if taking Megestrol triggers any of the following symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Tarnished view
- Strong thirst
- Frequent urination
- Strong hunger
- Leg pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Pain or heaviness in the chest
- Difficulty speaking
- Weakness or numbness in the leg or arm
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Megestrol
Megestrol should not be taken to prevent loss of appetite and weight in patients who have not developed AIDS.
Moreover, before starting the treatment it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its ingredients, or to other drugs or foods
- You are taking other medications, herbal remedies and supplements, citing in particular antibiotics, and indinavir
- You suffer (or have suffered) from thrombosis, stroke, diabetes or liver, or kidney disease
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
It is recommended to inform physicians, surgeons and dentists about ongoing treatment with Megestrol prior to any procedure.
Finally, during treatment you should avoid pregnancy using appropriate and effective contraceptive methods.
