When should I take megestrol?

Asked by: Bridgette Ghosh

Megestrol comes as a tablet, an oral suspension (liquid), and a concentrated oral suspension (Megace ES) to take by mouth. The tablets and suspension are usually taken several times a day. The concentrated suspension is usually taken once a day. Take megestrol at around the same time(s) every day.

What is the best time to take megestrol acetate?

You usually take megestrol acetate once a day, at the same time each day. But sometimes the dose is divided up, so that you take the tablets a couple of times a day. You can take them for many years.

Will megestrol make you sleepy?

You may feel tired and lacking energy when having megestrol. Take it easy if you feel tired. Try to strike a balance between periods of rest and some physical activity. Some people feel nauseous, especially during the first weeks after starting to take megestrol.

Can megestrol be taken on an empty stomach?

It is a tablet that you take by mouth. understand the directions. You may take megestrol with food or on an empty stomach. it is within 12 hours of the missed dose.

How long does it take for megestrol to work?

It may take up to 3 weeks to first notice an improved appetite. It may take up to 12 weeks to notice weight gain. This medicine can cause birth defects. Do not get pregnant while taking this drug.

Do you refrigerate megestrol?

How should this drug be STORED? Megestrol should be stored in a cool (15 – 30°C) dry place, protected from light and well out of the reach of children. Ensure that the drug has not expired by checking the expiry date (“EXP”) shown on the outside of the package.

Why is megestrol a high risk medication?

Use of megestrol acetate results in minimal improvements in appetite and weight gain, no improvement in quality of life or survival, and increased risk of thrombotic events, fluid retention, and death.

What is megestrol 40 mg used for?

Megestrol is used to treat loss of appetite and weight loss in people with AIDS. Improving your appetite and gaining weight may help you feel better and be more active. Megestrol is similar to a natural substance made by the body called progesterone.

Who should not take megestrol?

You should not use megestrol if you are allergic to it, or if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you have ever had: diabetes; an adrenal gland disorder; or.

Does megestrol stop periods?

Amongst the three treatment regimens, megestrol acetate was the fastest at suppressing uterine bleeding from a mean of 54 days to 3 days with the lowest bleeding score (4.9 ± 1.1). It was equally effective for treating both patients with and without endometrial hyperplasia who had ET of more than 11 mm.

What does big blood clots in period mean?

Polyps and Fibroids

Uterine polyps that grow on the cervix or in the lining of the uterus can also be a factor in heavy clotting. If you’re experiencing heavy bleeding, large blood clots during your period or lower back pain, it could be a uterine obstruction like a fibroid.

Can I get pregnant on megestrol?

This medicine can cause birth defects. Do not get pregnant while taking this drug. Females with child-bearing potential will need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine. Use an effective method of birth control while you are taking this medicine.

Does megestrol cause hair loss?

Your hair may become thin, brittle, or may fall out. This typically begins two to three weeks after treatment starts. This hair loss can be all body hair, including pubic, underarm, legs/arms, eyelashes, and nose hairs.

Why would a doctor prescribe megestrol?

Megestrol suspension is used to treat loss of appetite, malnutrition, and severe weight loss in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

What is the side effect of megestrol?

Trouble sleeping, fever, gas, decreased sexual ability/desire, weight gain, changes in appetite, or upset stomach may occur. Women may have changes in their menstrual periods, including unpredictable bleeding. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

What are the side effects of megestrol 40 mg?

Common side effects of megestrol acetate oral suspension include:

• diarrhea,
• weight gain,
• changes in appetite,
• nausea,
• stomach upset,
• rash,
• impotence,
• trouble sleeping (insomnia),

Can you drink alcohol while taking megestrol?

Drinking alcohol and smoking during your treatment may increase some side effects and make your medication less effective. Speak to your health care team about smoking and drinking alcohol while on treatment.