Mega%252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520cv

## Mega%252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520cv ### Overview Megestrol acetate is a synthetic progestational agent. ### Primary Indications * Palliative treatment of advanced breast cancer (postmenopausal women). * Palliative treatment of advanced endometrial carcinoma. * Management of anorexia, cachexia, or unexplained significant weight loss associated with chronic illness (e.g., AIDS). ### Adult Dosing * **Breast Cancer:** 160 mg daily. * **Endometrial Carcinoma:** 40 mg orally four times daily. Doses up to 400 mg daily have been used. * **Anorexia/Cachexia:** 400-800 mg daily. ### Pediatric Dosing Safety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric patients. ### Dose Adjustments * **Renal Impairment:** No specific dosing adjustments are recommended. * **Hepatic Impairment:** No specific dosing adjustments are recommended. ### Contraindications * Known hypersensitivity to megestrol acetate or any component of the formulation. * Pregnancy. ### Adverse Effects * **Common:** Weight gain, increased appetite, hot flashes, dyspnea, nausea, peripheral edema, fatigue, hypertension, mood changes, rash. * **Serious:** Thromboembolic events (e.g., deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke), adrenal insufficiency (especially with abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use), hyperglycemia, tumor flare. ### Key Drug Interactions * **CYP3A4 Inhibitors/Inducers:** May alter megestrol acetate plasma concentrations. * **Aminoglutethimide:** May decrease serum concentrations of megestrol acetate. ### Monitoring * Weight, appetite, and nutritional status. * Signs and symptoms of thromboembolic events. * Signs of adrenal insufficiency (especially if discontinuing after long-term therapy). * Blood glucose levels, particularly in patients with diabetes or at risk. * Tumor response. ### Clinical Pearls * May cause significant weight gain and increase appetite, which can be beneficial in patients with cachexia. * Ensure adequate contraception for patients of reproductive potential. * Abrupt discontinuation after long-term use may lead to adrenal insufficiency. Tapering may be necessary. * Use with caution in patients with a history of thrombotic events. *** *This information is intended for healthcare professionals. It is essential to consult the current prescribing information and relevant clinical guidelines for complete details before making any treatment decisions.*