Megestrol
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[edit | edit source]
Megestrol is used in the treatment of various conditions, including:
- Breast cancer
- Endometrial cancer
- Cachexia associated with cancer and HIV/AIDS
Breast Cancer[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
Common side effects of megestrol include:
Contraindications[edit | edit source]
Megestrol should not be used in patients with a history of thromboembolic disorders, severe liver disease, or known hypersensitivity to the drug.
Pharmacokinetics[edit | edit source]
Megestrol is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and is metabolized in the liver. It is excreted primarily in the urine.
History[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
