Megestrol Oral Tablet

Name: Megestrol Oral Tablet

Highlights for megestrol

MEGESTROL (me JES trol) belongs to a class of drugs known as progestins. Megestrol tablets are used to treat advanced breast or endometrial cancer.

This drug also comes in other forms, including Oral suspension

This drug can cause serious side effects. See which side effects you should report to your doctor right away.

Know how to use your medication, and learn what might happen if you miss a dose.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any of these conditions.

Know what to watch for and get tips for reducing your risks while taking this drug.

Megestrol Side Effects

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • chest pain
  • dizziness
  • fluid retention
  • increased blood pressure
  • leg pain or swelling
  • nausea and vomiting
  • skin rash or itching
  • weakness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • breakthrough menstrual bleeding
  • hot flashes or flushing
  • increased appetite
  • mood changes
  • sweating
  • weight gain

Megestrol May Interact with Other Medications

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • dofetilide

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • carbamazepine
  • indinavir
  • phenobarbital
  • phenytoin
  • primidone
  • rifampin
  • warfarin
Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs interact differently in each person, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible interactions. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare provider about possible interactions with all prescription drugs, vitamins, herbs and supplements, and over-the-counter drugs that you are taking.

How to Use megestrol

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • adrenal gland problems
  • history of blood clots of the legs, lungs, or other parts of the body
  • diabetes
  • kidney disease
  • liver disease
  • stroke
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to megestrol, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding
What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Continue taking this medicine even if you feel better. It may take 2 months of regular use before you know if this medicine is working for your condition.

If you are a female of child-bearing age, use an effective method of birth control while you are taking this medicine. This medicine should not be used by females who are pregnant or breast-feeding. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child or to an infant. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.

If you have diabetes, this medicine may affect blood sugar levels. Check your blood sugar and talk to your doctor or health care professional if you notice changes.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at controlled room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from heat above 40 degrees C (104 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

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