Uses of Megestrol

Megestrol is used to treat hormone dependent cancer which includes breast and endometrial cancer in affected individuals.

Megestrol is also used to treat reduced appetite & weight-loss in patients passing through an advanced stage of cancer/HIV.

Therapeutic Category

Megestrol: Progestogens

How Megestrol works

Megestrol works by changing the hormone balance in the body which results in interference of growth in hormone dependent cancer cells which leads to inhibition of growth and spread of cancer cells thus treating hormone dependent cancer (including breast and endometrial cancer) in affected individuals.

Common side effects of Megestrol

• Increase in appetite, weight gain
• Shortness of breath, high blood pressure
• Hot flushes, reddening of the face/neck, round face (moon face)
• Increased blood sugar
• Tiredness, feeling weak, nausea, vomiting, passing wind, constipation, diarrhea
• Swelling of a vein (due to blood clot)
• Changes in mood, numbness, pain, and/or tingling sensation in fingers/thumb
• Hair loss
• Impotence
• Needing to urinate often
• Changes in vaginal bleeding (breakthrough bleeding/spotting)
• Buildup of fluid which causes swelling (especially in ankles)
• Pain, rash, red itchy welts

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• Signs of blood clot such as loss of coordination, slurred speech, pain in groin, pain/ numbness in arm/leg, shortness of breath, weakness, headache, and/or fainting.
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face/lips/tongue, skin rash, and/or difficulty in breathing

Health Tips for Megestrol

• Follow the recommended dosage and frequency as prescribed by your doctor and do not make any changes without consulting them
• Megestrol is usually taken with food to improve absorption and reduce the likelihood of stomach upset
• Drink plenty of water while taking Megestrol to help reduce the risk of side effects
• Regularly schedule follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress and assess the effectiveness of Megestrol
• Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as Megestrol can interact with certain drugs
• Megestrol is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women