Will megestrol cause weight gain?
Although the precise mechanism by which megestrol acetate exerts its effect remains unclear, weight gain was observed in 75% of patients in the high-dose study and in nearly all of those who remained on therapy for 6 weeks.
Does megestrol acetate increase appetite?
Megestrol acetate (MA) is a progestational agent with a powerful effect on appetite. It was initially used as a contraceptive agent; however, the common side effect of weight gain led to its current use as an orexigenic agent.
Why does megestrol cause weight gain?
Weight gain as a result of increase in food intake is a common side effect of megestrol acetate, which is why it sometimes used to treat cachexia (muscle and weight loss or wasting and anorexia associated with cancer). This may be managed through dietary changes and exercise.
Does megestrol acetate cause weightloss?
Megestrol acetate at a dosage of 800 mg per day improves appetite, enjoyment and weight in elderly patients with weight loss.
Does megestrol make you tired?
You may feel tired and lacking energy when having megestrol. Take it easy if you feel tired. Try to strike a balance between periods of rest and some physical activity. Some people feel nauseous, especially during the first weeks after starting to take megestrol.
Why is megestrol a high risk medication?
Use of megestrol acetate results in minimal improvements in appetite and weight gain, no improvement in quality of life or survival, and increased risk of thrombotic events, fluid retention, and death.
How long does it take for megestrol acetate to work?
Patients will typically improve their appetite within the first few weeks after starting the drug. Weight gain, often in the form of fat, may take longer. Resistance exercise traing coupled with the weight gain may lead to improved lean muscle mass. A typical treatment duration may be 12 weeks.
What time of day should you take megestrol?
The concentrated suspension is usually taken once a day. Take megestrol at around the same time(s) every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take megestrol exactly as directed.
What medications are considered high risk?
High risk medications
- A – Antimicrobials.
- P – Potassium and other electrolytes, psychotropic medications.
- I – Insulin.
- N – Narcotics, opioids and sedatives.
- C – Chemotherapeutic agents.
- H – Heparin and other anticoagulants.
- S – Safer systems (e.g. safe administration of liquid medications using oral syringes)
How long can you take megestrol acetate tablets?
You have megestrol acetate as tablets. When you start taking it you should take them for at least 2 months. This is to find out if they are working. You can take them for many years. You must take tablets according to the instructions your doctor or pharmacist gives you. You should take the right dose, not more or less.
How much megestrol should I take for weight loss?
Usual Adult Dose for Weight Loss. Megestrol oral suspension is indicated for use in the treatment of unexplained, significant weight loss in patients with a diagnosis of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) at a dose of 800 mg/day. Alternatively, 625 mg/5 mL of the concentrated formula (Megace ES formula) may be given. Note: 800 mg/20 mL…
What happens if you become pregnant while taking megestrol?
If you become pregnant while taking megestrol, call your doctor immediately. Megestrol may harm the fetus. Do not breastfeed while you are taking megestrol. talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking megestrol if you are 65 years of age or older.
When to talk to your doctor about megestrol?
Before taking megestrol, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking megestrol if you are 65 years of age or older. Older adults should not usually take megestrol to treat loss of appetite and weight loss. you should know that megestrol may interfere with the normal menstrual cycle (period) in women.
When to take megestrol acetate for weight loss?
Megestrol acetate is a treatment for the following cancers that have come back or spread from where they started. It is also a treatment for poor appetite. Your doctor might suggest you take it if you have lost weight because of cancer or its treatment.
How long should megestrol be on the market?
-At least 2 months of continuous treatment is considered an adequate period for determining the efficacy of this drug. -At least 2 months of continuous treatment is considered an adequate period for determining the efficacy of this drug.
How often can you take megestrol for AIDS?
Megestrol is used to treat loss of appetite and weight loss in people with AIDS. Improving your appetite and gaining weight may help you feel better and be more active.Megestrol is similar to a natural substance made by the body called progesterone. Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily.
When to take megestrol acetate for hot flushes?
Megestrol acetate (Megace) It is also a treatment for poor appetite. Your doctor might suggest you take it if you have lost weight because of cancer or its treatment. Doctors might also use it as a treatment for women who have hot flushes due to their cancer or its treatment.