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# Mega%25252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520cv
## Overview
Megestrol acetate is a synthetic derivative of progesterone.
## Primary Indications
* Management of anorexia, cachexia, or unexplained weight loss.
* Palliative treatment of advanced breast cancer and endometrial cancer.
## Adult Dosing
* **Anorexia/Cachexia:** 400-800 mg daily.
* **Breast Cancer:** 160 mg daily.
* **Endometrial Cancer:** 40 mg four times daily (160 mg total daily dose).
## Pediatric Dosing
No established pediatric dosing.
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments for renal or hepatic impairment are established. Use with caution in these populations.
## Contraindications
* Known hypersensitivity to megestrol acetate.
* Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
## Adverse Effects
* **Common:** Weight gain, increased appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headache, hot flashes, hypertension, peripheral edema, rash, dyspnea.
* **Serious:** Adrenal insufficiency, thromboembolic events (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism), hyperglycemia, adrenal suppression.
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Aminoglutethimide:** May decrease megestrol acetate levels.
* **CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir):** May increase megestrol acetate levels; monitor for increased adverse effects.
## Monitoring
* Weight and appetite.
* Signs and symptoms of thromboembolic events.
* Blood glucose levels in diabetic patients.
* Electrolytes.
* Adrenal function if therapy is long-term or discontinued abruptly.
## Clinical Pearls
* May cause significant weight gain and fluid retention.
* Adverse effects are dose-dependent.
* Not recommended for patients with current thromboembolic disease.
* Onset of therapeutic effect may be delayed.
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*Disclaimer: This information is intended for clinical use and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant literature before making any treatment decisions.*
