Generic
Megestrol Acetate 160 mg

Description
Megestol is a synthetic progestational and antineoplastic medication, primarily used in the treatment of advanced breast and endometrial cancer. It works by altering hormone levels and exerting direct cytotoxic effects on tumor cells. This medication is often used as part of palliative care, aiming to manage symptoms of cancer rather than offering a cure.

Benefits
Megestol helps manage hormone-dependent cancers, such as breast and endometrial cancers, by inhibiting cancer growth and progression. Additionally, it increases appetite and body weight in patients suffering from cancer-related cachexia or anorexia, and those with HIV-related weight loss.

Ingredients
Each tablet contains 160 mg of Megestrol Acetate as the active ingredient, along with inactive excipients to form the tablet.

Uses and Doses
Megestol is used to treat advanced breast and endometrial cancers, as well as weight loss due to cachexia or anorexia in cancer and AIDS patients. The recommended dosage for breast cancer is 160 mg daily and for endometrial carcinoma, 40-320 mg daily in divided doses. The dosage may vary, and up to 800 mg daily may be used in some cases.

Side Effects
Common side effects of Megestol include weight gain, increased appetite, hot flashes, high blood pressure, and increased glucose levels. Serious side effects may include deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, adrenal insufficiency, and anemia.

How to Use
Megestol should be taken orally, with or without food, preferably at a fixed time each day. Swallow the tablet whole without chewing or breaking it. The duration of treatment will be determined by your doctor, and it’s important not to stop the medication suddenly without medical advice.

Pregnancy & Lactation
Megestrol is categorized as Pregnancy Category D and should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to potential harm to the fetus or newborn. Only minimal amounts are excreted in breast milk, but due to unknown effects on the infant, nursing should be discontinued during treatment.

Precautions and Warnings
Patients with a history of thromboembolic disease, diabetes, or hypertension should use Megestol with caution. Close monitoring is required in cancer patients, especially those with underlying diabetes, as it may increase insulin requirements and exacerbate diabetic conditions. Consult with your doctor if you experience symptoms of a blood clot, such as swelling or unexplained pain in your limbs.

Safety Information
Do not use Megestol if you have known hypersensitivity to Megestrol Acetate or any of its components. Avoid use during pregnancy or lactation. Regular blood tests should be conducted to monitor hormone levels and blood sugar levels during treatment. Consult your doctor immediately if experiencing severe side effects or signs of blood clots.

Indications
Megestol is indicated for the treatment of advanced breast carcinoma and endometrial carcinoma. It is also prescribed for patients with anorexia, cachexia, or significant weight loss associated with cancer or AIDS.

Pharmacology
Megestrol Acetate works by inhibiting estrogen synthesis, modulating other steroid hormones, and exerting direct cytotoxic effects on tumor cells. It suppresses pituitary gonadotrophin, resulting in decreased estrogen production. Peak plasma levels are reached 2-3 hours after administration, with a half-life of 33-38 hours.

Therapeutic Class
Hormonal Chemotherapy (uses hormones to treat cancer).

Storage Conditions
Store Megestol tablets at or below 25°C. Keep away from heat, light, and moisture.

FAQ

1. What is Megestol used for?
   Megestol is used to treat hormone-dependent cancers such as breast and endometrial cancers. It is also used to manage weight loss in cancer and AIDS patients.
2. Can I take Megestol during pregnancy?
   No, Megestol should not be taken during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus.
3. Are there any serious side effects of Megestol?
   Yes, serious side effects may include deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and adrenal insufficiency. Consult your doctor if you experience any severe symptoms.

Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for medical advice specific to your health condition.

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