Megestrol Acetate (By Mouth)

Megestrol Acetate (me-JES-trole AS-e-tate)

Treats cancer of the breast or uterus. Also used to increase appetite and prevent weight loss in patients with AIDS.

Brand Name(s):

Megace
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to megestrol or if you are pregnant.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• For cancer treatment, you may need to take this medicine for at least 2 months before it starts to work.
• If you are using the oral liquid medicine, shake the bottle thoroughly before each use. Pour the liquid into the medicine cup to measure your correct dose.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are breastfeeding, or if you have diabetes or a history of blood clots.
• Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.
• Taking this medicine for a long time may increase the risk of some kinds of cancer. Talk to your doctor about this risk.
• This medicine may cause weight gain as a result of an increased appetite.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Increased thirst, increase in how much or how often you urinate
• Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, weakness
• Pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in the leg (calf)
• Puffy, full, or rounded face
• Severe headache, slurring of speech, changes in vision
• Sudden shortness of breath or rapid breathing with chest pain

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Breakthrough menstrual bleeding
• Indigestion
• Rash
• Trouble having or maintaining an erection
• Trouble sleeping

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.