Megestrol acetate

Megestrol acetate is a progestin medication which is used mainly in the treatment of breast cancer and endometrial cancer. It is also used to treat anorexia and cachexia, especially in patients with AIDS, and to treat gynecological conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and menopausal symptoms. In addition, it has been used to enhance appetite and, in turn, help increase weight and fat deposition in patients with cancer or AIDS and to treat anorexia and cachexia in individuals with HIV/AIDS.

Medical uses[edit]

Megestrol acetate is approved by the FDA for the treatment of anorexia, cachexia, or an unexplained, significant weight loss in patients with a diagnosis of AIDS. It is also used for the palliative treatment of recurrent, inoperable, or metastatic breast cancer and endometrial cancer.

Side effects[edit]

Common side effects of megestrol acetate include weight gain, edema, thromboembolism, nausea, vomiting, breakthrough bleeding, and hyperglycemia. Less common side effects include impotence, rash, and hirsutism.

Pharmacology[edit]

Megestrol acetate is a synthetic progestogen that works by binding to progesterone receptors, thereby inhibiting the release of certain hormones in the body. It also has anti-androgen and anti-glucocorticoid effects.

History[edit]

Megestrol acetate was first synthesized in 1959 and was introduced for medical use in 1963. It was initially used to treat menopausal symptoms and certain types of breast cancer and endometrial cancer.

Society and culture[edit]

Megestrol acetate is marketed under a variety of brand names including Megace and Megace ES.