Description
MEGACE (megestrol) is a prescription hormone product that can be prescribed for multiple conditions. It can be used to stimulate appetite and to treat certain types of cancer.
- Anorexia or cachexia associated with AIDS
- Cancer-related cachexia
- Breast cancer
- Endometrial cancer
MEGACE stimulates appetite by affecting the hormones that make a person feel full.
MEGACE is a synthetic progesterone that mimics the effects of natural progesterone in the body. It blocks luteinizing hormone, which can increase the growth of certain breast and endometrial cancers.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C24H32O4 |
License |
US FDA |
Bioavailability |
100% |
Legal status |
Rx-only |
Chemical Name |
Megestrol |
Elimination half-life |
34 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
160mg |
Pregnancy |
Consult Doctor |
Brands |
Megace |
Protein binding |
82% |
PubChem CID |
11683 |
MedlinePlus |
a682003 |
ChEBI |
6723 |
ATC code |
G03AC05 |
DrugBank |
DB00351 |
KEGG |
D00952 |
Routes of administration |
By mouth |
Directions
The MEGACE dose will vary depending on what it has been prescribed for. Take MEGACE exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
If being used to treat cancer, take it as prescribed by your oncologist.
- Anorexia or cachexia associated with AIDS: MEGACE oral suspension, 625-800 mg by mouth daily
- Cancer-related cachexia: MEGACE tablets, 160-800 mg by mouth every day in divided doses
- Breast cancer: MEGACE tablets, 40 mg by mouth four times daily for at least two months
- Endometrial cancer: MEGACE tablets, 40 to 320 mg by mouth in divided doses for at least two months
Ingredients
The active ingredient in MEGACE is megestrol.
Interactions
Common drug interactions with MEGACE can include:
- Anticoagulants
- Defetilide
- Pamolidomide
- Ulipristal
Speak with your doctor or pharmacist to learn about all the drug interactions that may impact your health.
Cautions
Tell your doctor if you have a history of adrenal suppression, thromboembolism, or diabetes.
Side Effects
Common adverse reactions with MEGACE may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Albuminuria
- Alopecia
- Candidiasis
- Cough
- Decreased libido
- Diarrhea
- Dyspepsia
- Edema
- Fever
- Flatulence
- Gynecomastia
- Headache
- Hyeprtension
- Hyperglycemia
- Impotence
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Pain
- Palpitations
- Skin rash
- Urinary incontinence
- Urinary tract infection
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Find a great MEGACE cost by searching online at Canada Drugs Direct. Buy MEGACE online with a valid prescription from your doctor. If you are using MEGACE for cancer treatment, tell your oncologist where you are getting your medication.
References
Megace [package insert]. Princeton, New Jersey: Bristol-Myers Squibb; 2012.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 2404