Megace (Megestrol Acetate) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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May 26, 2012

Megace

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Megace

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Megace®
(megestrol acetate, USP) Oral Suspension

DRUG DESCRIPTION

MEGACE® (megestrol acetate, USP) Oral Suspension contains megestrol acetate, a synthetic derivative of the naturally occurring steroid hormone, progesterone. Megestrol acetate is a white, crystalline solid chemically designated as 17α-(acetyloxy)6-methylpregna-4,6-diene-3,20-dione. Solubility at 37°C in water is 2 μg per mL, solubility in plasma is 24 μg per mL. Its molecular weight is 384.51.

The empirical formula is C₂₄H₃₂O₄ and the structural formula is represented as follows:

megestrol acetate, USP

Megace® (megestrol acetate) Structural Formula Illustration

MEGACE Oral Suspension is supplied as an oral suspension containing 40 mg of micronized megestrol acetate per mL.

MEGACE Oral Suspension contains the following inactive ingredients: alcohol (max. 0.06% v/v from flavor), citric acid, lemon-lime flavor, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80, purified water, sodium benzoate, sodium citrate, sucrose, and xanthan gum.

What are the possible side effects of megestrol (Megace)?

Stop taking megestrol and seek emergency medical attention or call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects:

an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
sudden severe headache;
changes in vision; or
numbness or swelling in an arm or leg.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Notify your doctor if you experience

nausea or...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Megace »

What are the precautions when taking megestrol acetate (Megace)?

Before taking megestrol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: adrenal gland problems (e.g., Cushing's syndrome), blood clots, congestive heart failure, diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney problems, unusual vaginal bleeding.

High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and worsening of diabetes may occur. Symptoms of high blood sugar include thirst, increased urination, confusion, drowsiness, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity breath odor. If these symptoms occur, tell your doctor...

Read All Potential Precautions of Megace »

Last reviewed on RxList: 4/19/2012
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.