Side Effects of megestrol: A Synthesis of Findings from 21 Studies

  1. Home
  2. Side Effects of megestrol
This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician.Data sources and disclaimers (data limitations, copyright, etc.)The analysis on "Side Effects of megestrol: A Synthesis of Findings from 21 Studies" on this page is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). However, NLM does not endorse or verify these analyses.

This analysis is based on research papers included in PubMed, but medical research is constantly evolving and may not fully reflect the latest findings. There may also be biases towards certain research areas.

This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician. If you have concerns about "Side Effects of megestrol: A Synthesis of Findings from 21 Studies", please consult your doctor.

For NLM copyright information, please see Link to NLM Copyright Page
PubMed data is obtained via Hugging Face Datasets: Link to DatasetPlease check the disclaimer.
This page's analysis is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM).
Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Megestrol acetate is an appetite stimulant used to treat anorexia and weight loss. It has been studied in various settings, including cancer cachexia, AIDS-related weight loss, dialysis patients, postmenopausal breast cancer patients, and anorexia and weight loss in the elderly. 6 , 9 , 13 , 8 , 16 , 15

Reasons for Side Effects

Megestrol acetate is a drug that mimics the effects of the hormone progesterone. Progesterone is a type of female hormone involved in maintaining pregnancy and breast development. Megestrol acetate binds to progesterone receptors, mimicking the effects of progesterone. However, megestrol acetate is a stronger progesterone agonist, which can lead to side effects. 9

Common Side Effects

Weight Gain

Megestrol acetate can cause weight gain due to its appetite-stimulating effect. 10 , 6 , 13 , 8 , 16

Edema

Megestrol acetate can cause edema due to its water-retaining properties. 9

Thrombosis

Megestrol acetate may increase the risk of thrombosis. 9

Mood Changes

Megestrol acetate can cause mood changes and depression. 9

Other Side Effects

Megestrol acetate may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, indigestion, gastrointestinal bleeding, liver dysfunction, hypertension, fever, hair loss, skin discoloration, and sexual dysfunction. 9 , 1

Side Effect Management

Weight Gain

To prevent weight gain, dietary therapy and exercise therapy are essential. Adjusting the dosage of megestrol acetate according to the doctor's instructions may also be necessary. 10 , 6 , 13 , 8 , 16

Edema

To reduce edema, measures such as limiting salt intake and resting with your feet elevated are needed. 9

Thrombosis

To reduce the risk of thrombosis, measures such as quitting smoking, exercising, and managing weight are necessary. 9

Mood Changes

If you are concerned about mood changes or depression, consult your doctor. Antidepressant medication or other therapies may be required. 9

Comparison Between Studies

Similarities in Studies

Many studies have shown that megestrol acetate is effective in treating anorexia and weight loss. Megestrol acetate may also cause side effects such as weight gain, edema, thrombosis, and mood changes. 10 , 6 , 13 , 8 , 16 , 15

Differences in Studies

The effectiveness and side effects of megestrol acetate may vary depending on the patient's condition and the purpose of treatment. For example, in the treatment of cancer cachexia, megestrol acetate is widely used as an effective treatment. However, there is limited research on the effectiveness and side effects of megestrol acetate in dialysis patients and the elderly. 10 , 6 , 13 , 8 , 16 , 15

Precautions for Applying to Daily Life

Megestrol acetate is an effective drug for treating anorexia and weight loss, but because it carries the risk of side effects, it is important to take it according to your doctor's instructions. When taking megestrol acetate, be aware of side effects such as weight gain and edema, and consult your doctor if necessary. 10 , 6 , 13 , 8 , 16 , 15

Current Research Limitations

There is a lack of research on the long-term effects of megestrol acetate. Additionally, the effectiveness and side effects of megestrol acetate may vary depending on the patient's condition and the purpose of treatment. Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor before taking megestrol acetate. 10 , 6 , 13 , 8 , 16 , 15

Future Research Directions

Further research is needed on the long-term effects and safety of megestrol acetate. Also, research is needed to clarify how the effectiveness and side effects of megestrol acetate vary depending on the patient's condition and the purpose of treatment. 10 , 6 , 13 , 8 , 16 , 15

Conclusion

Megestrol acetate is an effective drug for treating anorexia and weight loss, but it can cause side effects. It is important to take it according to your doctor's instructions. When taking megestrol acetate, be aware of side effects such as weight gain and edema, and consult your doctor if necessary. Further research is needed on the long-term effects and safety of megestrol acetate. 10 , 6 , 13 , 8 , 16 , 15

Literature analysis of 21 papers
Positive Content
18
Neutral Content
0
Negative Content
3
Article Type
4
0
2
6
21
1.

Integrated safety profile of selinexor in multiple myeloma: experience from 437 patients enrolled in clinical trials.

Author: GavriatopoulouMaria, ChariAjai, ChenChristine, BahlisNizar, VoglDan T, JakubowiakAndrzej, DingliDavid, CornellRobert F, HofmeisterCraig C, SiegelDavid, BerdejaJesus G, ReeceDonna, WhiteDarrell, LentzschSuzanne, GasparettoCristina, HuffCarol Ann, JagannathSundar, BazRachid, NookaAjay K, RichterJoshua, AbonourRafat, ParkerTerri L, YeeAndrew J, MoreauPhilippe, LonialSagar, TuchmanSascha, WeiselKatja C, MohtyMohamad, ChoquetSylvain, UngerT J, LiKai, ChaiYi, LiLingling, ShahJatin, ShachamSharon, KauffmanMichael G, DimopoulosMeletios Athanasios

Cancer therapy
Selinexor side effects

This study reviews the adverse effects of selinexor, an oral inhibitor of exportin 1, in patients with multiple myeloma. The results show that the most common adverse effects are nausea, vomiting, fatigue, diarrhea, decreased appetite, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, and hyponatremia. These side effects are generally manageable with supportive care.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

2.

Mechanisms of skeletal muscle degradation and its therapy in cancer cachexia.

Author: MelstromL G, MelstromK A, DingX-Z, AdrianT E

Cachexia treatment

This abstract discusses cancer cachexia, a condition characterized by weight loss and muscle wasting, and the role of the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway in its development. It highlights the severity of cachexia in pancreatic cancer and the need for effective treatment strategies.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

3.

Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device plus metformin, or megestrol acetate plus metformin for fertility-sparing treatment of atypical endometrial hyperplasia and early endometrial carcinoma: a prospective, randomized, blind-endpoint design trial protocol.

Author: ZhaoXin, NiuJumin, ShiCong, LiuZhihui

Fertility sparing
Endometrial cancer
Obesity

This trial investigates the effectiveness of conservative treatment, specifically progestin therapy, for obese women with early-stage endometrial adenocarcinoma (EC). This treatment aims to preserve reproductive function.

Clinical Trial ProtocolA plan for conducting a clinical trial. It describes in detail the purpose, design, methodology, and statistical considerations of the trial, ensuring the transparency and consistency of the trial.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

4.

Prophylactic treatment for delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting after non-AC based moderately emetogenic chemotherapy: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

Author: van der VorstMaurice J D L, NeefjesElisabeth C W, KoningsInge R H M, VerheulHenk M W

Delayed CINV prophylaxis

Delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) remains a significant adverse effect of moderately emetogenic chemotherapy not containing anthracyclines and cyclophosphamide.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

6.

First-line treatment with mitoxantrone, methotrexate, vincristine, and carboplatine (MIMOC) plus cyclical hormonotherapy with tamoxifen and megestrol acetate in advanced breast cancer.

Author: KakolyrisS, SamonisG, KoukourakisM, VlachonicolisJ, KalbakisK, AgelakiS, ChalkiadakisG, SanidasE, TsiftsisD, GeorgouliasV

Breast cancer response
Survival improvement
Myelotoxicity
Nausea/vomiting

A combination chemotherapy regimen of mitoxantrone, methotrexate, vincristine, and carboplatine (MIMOC), plus cyclical hormonotherapy with tamoxifen and megestrol acetate, was effective in treating advanced breast cancer. The response rate was higher in patients with positive estrogen receptor status.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

7.

Appetite stimulants in cystic fibrosis: a systematic review.

Author: ChinuckR S, FortnumH, BaldwinD R

Lung function
Weight
Adrenal suppression
Mood changes

Megestrol acetate may be effective in managing anorexia associated with cystic fibrosis, but further research is needed to confirm its safety and efficacy.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

8.

Usage of megestrol acetate in the treatment of anorexia-cachexia syndrome in the elderly.

Author: YehS-S, LovittS, SchusterM W

Cachexia
Side effects

This review assesses the efficacy and safety of megestrol acetate (MA) in geriatric cachexia, focusing on a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

9.

Megestrol acetate in cachexia and anorexia.

Author: YehShing-Shing, SchusterMichael W

Cachexia treatment

Megestrol acetate (MA) is a medication used to treat cachexia, a condition that causes weight loss and muscle wasting. It is available in both oral and intravenous forms. The newly approved nanocrystal formation of MA may improve drug delivery.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

11.

The "newer" progestogens and postmenopausal hormone therapy (HRT).

Author: SchindlerAdolf E

Endometrial proliferation control
Menopause treatment

This review discusses the use of newer progestogens, such as dienogest, drospirenone, and nomegestrol acetate, in hormone therapy for women. These progestogens are being explored as potentially safer alternatives to older progestogens.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

12.

Anastrozole: a new addition to the armamentarium against advanced breast cancer.

Author: BuzdarA U

Effective endocrine agent
Estrogen depletion
Weight gain

Anastrozole, a new, highly selective, nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor, was found to be as effective as megestrol acetate for the treatment of advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women who progressed after tamoxifen therapy.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

13.

Treatment of anorexia and malnutrition in peritoneal dialysis patients with megestrol acetate.

Author: CosteroOlga, BajoM Auxiliadora, del PesoGloria, GilFernando, AguileraAbelardo, RosSilvia, HeviaCovadonga, SelgasRafael

Increased appetite
Increased serum albumin
Increased weight

Megestrol acetate (MA) is a drug that can increase appetite and weight. This study found that MA was effective in improving appetite, increasing serum albumin levels, and increasing weight in PD patients. No side effects were observed.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

14.

Retrospective review of megestrol use for weight loss in an elderly veteran population.

Author: KennedyDeborah H, WardCeressa T, SalvigBrent

Weight gain
Weight loss

Patients both gained and lost weight when receiving megestrol therapy. There was no difference between the patients who did or did not gain weight using objective measures of weight loss.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

16.

Megestrol acetate in a moderate dose for the treatment of malnutrition-inflammation complex in maintenance dialysis patients.

Author: RammohanMeenakshi, Kalantar-ZadehKamyar, LiangAlexander, GhosseinCybele

Increased appetite
Reduced inflammation
Side effects

Malnutrition-inflammation complex syndrome and anorexia are common problems in dialysis patients. This study discusses the use of megestrol acetate to increase appetite and mitigate inflammation in these patients.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

17.

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial of megestrol acetate in malnourished children with cystic fibrosis.

Author: MarchandV, BakerS S, StarkT J, BakerR D

Induces weight gain in malnourished patients with CF

Megestrol acetate, a drug that stimulates appetite, was found to induce weight gain in malnourished patients with cystic fibrosis. The study also assessed the composition of weight gain.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

18.

Progestin treatment for infertility in bitches with short interestrus interval.

Author: WankeM M, LozaM E, RebueltoM

Infertility treatment

Suppression of estrus using megestrol acetate or clormadinone acetate was found to be an effective treatment for infertility in bitches with shortened interestrus periods.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

19.

The effects of megestrol acetate on nutritional parameters in a dialysis population.

Author: BoccanfusoJ A, HuttonM, McAllisterB

Appetite stimulation
Hemodialysis nutrition
Hemodialysis risks
Megestrol acetate
Side effects

Megestrol acetate may help stimulate appetite in the hemodialysis patient, but it is risky and must be monitored closely.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

20.

Supportive treatment in weight-losing cancer patients due to the additive adverse effects of radiation treatment and/or chemotherapy.

Author: ErkurtE, ErkisiM, TunaliC

Anorexia reversal
Weight gain

Megestrol acetate was effective in reversing anorexia and weight loss in patients with advanced cancer undergoing radiation treatment.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

21.

Randomized phase III clinical trial of five different arms of treatment for patients with cancer cachexia: interim results.

Author: MantovaniGiovanni, MacciòAntonio, MadedduClelia, GramignanoGiulia, SerpeRoberto, MassaElena, DessìMariele, TancaFrancesca Maria, SannaEleonora, DeianaLaura, PanzoneFilomena, ContuPaolo, FlorisCarlo

Anorexia/cachexia treatment

This study describes a phase III randomized study aimed at establishing the most effective and safest treatment for cancer-related anorexia/cachexia syndrome and oxidative stress. It identifies primary endpoints for evaluating treatment effectiveness.

Clinical Trial, Phase IIIA Phase III trial is a trial that further rigorously verifies the efficacy and safety of a new drug or treatment, whose efficacy and safety have been confirmed in a Phase II trial, in a large number of patients, and evaluates whether it is superior to existing treatments.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

This site uses cookies. Visit our privacy policy page or click the link in any footer for more information and to change your preferences.