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Megace ES
  • Treatments
  • AIDS Related Wasting

Megace ES

Generic name:megestrolmeh-JESS-trol ]
Drug classes:Hormones / antineoplastics, Progestins

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Sep 21, 2021.

What is Megace ES?

Megace ES is a man-made chemical similar to the female hormone progesterone.

Megace ES is used to treat loss of appetite and wasting syndrome in people with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Megace ES is not for use in preventing weight loss or wasting syndrome.

Warnings

Do not use Megace ES if you are pregnant. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

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

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.

Before taking this medicine

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

To make sure Megace ES is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • diabetes;

  • an adrenal gland disorder; or

  • a stroke or blood clot.

You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment.

Do not use Megace ES if you are pregnant. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant.

In animal studies, megestrol caused low birth weight and other problems when used during pregnancy. However, it is not known whether these effects would occur in humans. Ask your doctor about your risk.

Women with HIV or AIDS should not breastfeed a baby. Even if your baby is born without HIV, the virus may be passed to the baby in your breast milk.

How should I take Megace ES?

Take Megace ES exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid) before you measure a dose. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Your dose needs may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of this medicine. Avoid medication errors by using only the form and strength your doctor prescribes.

Your dosage needs may also 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 at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

When you stop using Megace ES after long-term use, you may have withdrawal symptoms such as nausea,