Generic name: megestrol (oral route) [ me-JES-trol-AS-e-tate ]
Drug classes:Hormones / antineoplastics, Progestins
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 7, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Megace
- Megace ES
In Canada
- Megace Os
Available Dosage Forms:
- Tablet
- Suspension
Therapeutic Class: Endocrine-Metabolic Agent
Pharmacologic Class: Megestrol
Uses for Megace Os
Megestrol tablet is used to treat advanced cancer of the breast or uterus in patients whose cancer has already spread, come back, or cannot be treated with surgery. Megestrol oral liquid is also used to treat anorexia, cachexia, or unexplained weight loss in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using Megace Os
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of megestrol in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Geriatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of megestrol in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related liver, kidney, or heart problems, which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving this medicine.
Breastfeeding
There are no adequate studies in women...
