Megace

Generic Name: megestrol (meh JESS trol)
Brand Names: Megace, Megace ES

What is Megace?

Megace (megestrol) is a man-made chemical similar to the female hormone progesterone.

Megace is used to treat loss of appetite and weight loss in people with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Megace is also used in the treatment of advanced breast cancer and endometrial cancer.

Megace may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Megace

Megace can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects. Do not use Megace if you are pregnant.

Before you take Megace, tell your doctor if you have diabetes or a history of stroke or blood clot.

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Your dosage needs may change if you have surgery, are ill, are under stress, or have an infection. Do not change your medication dose or schedule without your doctor's advice.

Megace ES contains a higher concentration of megestrol than Megace. Ask your pharmacist if you have any questions about the medicine you receive at the pharmacy.

Before taking Megace

You should not use Megace if you are allergic to megestrol, or if you are pregnant.

To make sure you can safely take Megace, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• diabetes; or

• a history of stroke or blood clot.

FDA pregnancy category X. Megace can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects. Do not use Megace if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment. Use effective birth control while you are using this medication. It is not known whether megestrol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while taking Megace.

See also: Megace pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)

How should I take Megace?

Take Megace exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. Measure the liquid with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Megace ES contains a higher concentration of megestrol than Megace. If your doctor changes your brand, strength, or type of megestrol, your dosage needs may change. Ask your pharmacist if you have any questions about the medicine you receive at the pharmacy.

Your dosage needs may change if you have surgery, are ill, are under stress, or have an infection. Do not change your medication dose or schedule without your doctor's advice.

Store Megace at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking Megace?

Avoid coming into contact with your body fluids (including urine, feces, vomit, semen, vaginal fluid). Chemotherapy can pass into body fluids. Patients or caregivers should wear rubber gloves while cleaning up body fluids, handling contaminated trash or laundry or changing diapers. Wash hands before and after removing gloves. Wash soiled clothing and linens separately from other laundry.

Body fluids should not be handled by a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant. Use condoms during sexual activity to avoid exposure to body fluids.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Megace side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Megace: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• high blood sugar (increased thirst, increased urination, hunger, dry mouth, fruity breath odor, drowsiness, dry skin, blurred vision, weight loss);

• nausea, vomiting, dizziness, weakness, or feeling like you might pass out;

• sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;

• chest pain, sudden cough, wheezing, rapid breathing, fast heart rate; or

• high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in your ears, anxiety, confusion).

Less serious Megace side effects may include:

• upset stomach;

• vaginal bleeding;

• mild skin rash;

• weakness,

• sleep problems (insomnia); or

• decreased interest in sex, impotence, trouble having an orgasm.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

See also: Megace side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect Megace?

Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, especially:

• indinavir (Crixivan); or

• insulin or oral diabetes medications.

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with Megace. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about Megace.