Megestrol Acetate
Generic Details
Generic Name
Megestrol Acetate
Other Names
- Megace
Drug Class
- Progestin
Chemical Formula
C24H32O4
Molecular Weight
384.5 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Acts as a synthetic progestational agent with antiestrogenic properties.
Indications
- Breast Cancer
- Endometrial Cancer
- Appetite Stimulation in Cancer Cachexia
- Anorexia
- Weight Loss in HIV/AIDS
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Oral Suspension
Typical Dosage
- 800 mg/day in divided doses for appetite stimulation in cancer cachexia
Pediatric Dosage
Geriatric Dosage
Side Effects
- Weight Gain
- Fluid Retention
- Hot Flashes
- Impotence
- Dizziness
- Headache
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Hypersensitivity to megestrol acetate
Pregnancy Category
- X - Contraindicated
Lactation Safety
- Contraindicated
Drug Interactions
- Insulin
- Oral Hypoglycemic Agents
- Anticoagulants
Overdose Symptoms
Antidote for Overdose
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed after oral administration
- Distribution: Highly protein-bound
- Metabolism: Hepatic
- Excretion: Primarily renal
Precautions
- Monitor for signs of fluid retention and thromboembolic disorders
Warnings
- May increase the risk of thromboembolism, especially in patients with a history of thromboembolic events.