Megestrol Acetate

It belongs to group of progestogens. Progestogens are largely used as second or third line therapy in breast cancer and endometrial cancer.

Indications

Breast Cancer, Endometrium cancer, Cachexia in AIDS, L-Anorexia or cachexia in neoplastic disease.

Dosage

Breast cancer : 160mg daily as single or divided doses. Endometrium Cancer : adults : 40-320 mg daily in divided doses. Cachexia in AIDS: Adults : 100-400mg daily. Anorexia or cachexia in neoplastic disease : Adult : 480-600mg daily.

Contra-Indications

Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, hepatic, impairment, history of thromboembolic disease, severe arterial disease.

Special Precautions

Incomplete abortion, asthma, congestive heart failure, migraine, epilepsy, depression, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes mellitus.

Side Effects

Acne,urticaria, fluid retention, weight gain, gastrointestinal disturbances, changes in libido, breast discomfort, premenstrual symptoms, irregular menstrual cycles, depression, insomnia, somnolence, alopecia, hirsutism, anaphylactoid, like reaction, jaundice, hot flushes, adrenocortical suppression, nausea, carpel tunnel syndrome, hypercalcemia.