Drugs & Vitamins

Active Ingredients: Megestrol
Drug Class: Progestins
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Megestrol Tablets? (Back to top)
MEGESTROL belongs to a class of drugs known as progestins. Megestrol tablets are used to treat advanced breast or endometrial cancer. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
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

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
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.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
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 may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)
Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

• dofetilide

• carbamazepine
• indinavir
• phenobarbital
• phenytoin
• primidone
• rifampin
• warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
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

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

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
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 this medicine? (Back to top)
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.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Last Updated:June 19, 2006

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