Drug reference

Megestrol acetate

Progestogen · Unknown

ProgestogenUnknownATC null

CDSCO approvedSchedule H

EXCRETION

—

not curated

INTERACTIONS

2 major

SEVERE in our sources

PREGNANCY

FDA category + note

Top interactionssee all 3 →

DofetilideSevereDatabaseDDInter
ThalidomideSevereDatabaseDDInter

Mechanism

Megestrol acetate is a C21 steroid in the pregnane family with selective activity very similar to that of progesterone itself. Progesterone's main function is the preparation of the uterus for nidation and maintenance of pregnancy by preventing endometrial shedding, decreasing uterine motility, and inhibiting immunological rejection of the foetus through T-cell function and cell-mediated immunity depression.

Indications

Management of endometrial carcinomaMetastatic hormone-dependent breast cancer (use has been largely superseded by tamoxifen and AIs)Appetite stimulant and to restore a sense of well-being in cachectic patients with advanced stages of cancer and AIDSRefractory hot flashes in women

Dosing

Adult: 30 micrograms. 500 micrograms. 75 micrograms. 30 micrograms

Pharmacokinetics

Duration

1 –3 days

Side effects

Common

Impaired glucose toleranceIncreased LDL cholesterol levelsDecreased HDL cholesterol levelsWeight gainNauseaVomitingEdemaBreakthrough bleedingShortness of breath

Serious