IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

MEGESTROL SUSPENSION - ORAL

(meh-JESS-troll)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Megace

USES: This medication is used to increase your appetite and to prevent or reverse significant weight loss (e.g., muscle wasting in cancer or AIDS). By preventing weight loss from disease, you will feel better and may be able to be more active.

This medication may also be used to treat cancer of the breast or uterus. It may be used alone or with other treatments, including surgery and radiation, to stop the growth of your tumor.

Megestrol is similar to a natural substance made by the body called progesterone. It is not known how megestrol helps appetite or stops tumor growth.

OTHER USES: This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This medication may also be used to treat prostate cancer or certain conditions of the female reproductive system (e.g., endometriosis).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Shake well before measuring the dose each time you take this medication. Do not switch between different forms of megestrol because they may not have the same amount of medication. Your dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. It may take several weeks of continued use to see a benefit. Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.