Megestrol

Megestrol.svg

Megestrol is a progestin and antineoplastic agent used primarily in the treatment of breast cancer and endometrial cancer. It is also used as an appetite stimulant in patients with significant weight loss due to cancer or HIV/AIDS.

Medical Uses

Megestrol is used in the treatment of various conditions, including:

• Breast cancer
• Endometrial cancer
• Cachexia associated with cancer and HIV/AIDS

Breast Cancer

Megestrol is used as a hormonal therapy for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. It works by inhibiting the effects of estrogen on the breast tissue.

Endometrial Cancer

In the treatment of endometrial cancer, megestrol acts by counteracting the effects of estrogen on the endometrium, thereby inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.

Appetite Stimulation

Megestrol is also prescribed to stimulate appetite and promote weight gain in patients suffering from severe cachexia due to cancer or HIV/AIDS. It is believed to work by influencing the hypothalamus to increase appetite.

Mechanism of Action

Megestrol is a synthetic progestin that mimics the effects of the natural hormone progesterone. It binds to progesterone receptors in the body, leading to changes in the endometrium and inhibition of gonadotropin production. This results in decreased levels of estrogen and androgens, which can slow the growth of certain types of cancer cells.

Side Effects

Common side effects of megestrol include:

• Weight gain
• Hypertension
• Hyperglycemia
• Thromboembolism
• Nausea
• Edema

Contraindications

Megestrol should not be used in patients with a history of thromboembolic disorders, severe liver disease, or known hypersensitivity to the drug.

Pharmacokinetics

Megestrol is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and is metabolized in the liver. It is excreted primarily in the urine.

History

Megestrol was first approved for medical use in the 1960s. It has since become a valuable drug in the management of hormone-sensitive cancers and cachexia.

See Also

• Progestin
• Breast cancer treatment
• Endometrial cancer treatment
• Appetite stimulant

External Links

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