What are the side effects of taking Megestrol Acetate Soft Capsules?
May 14, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Man
Introduction
The main adverse effects of megestrol acetate soft capsules include:
- Weight gain, a common adverse reaction to megestrol acetate soft capsules. In patients with cancer-related cachexia and weight loss, this effect is often beneficial.
- Thromboembolic events are rarely reported, including thrombophlebitis and pulmonary embolism.
- Adverse effects are typically transient; however, they may occasionally lead to sequelae.
Megestrol acetate soft capsules are indicated primarily for the treatment of advanced breast cancer and advanced endometrial cancer, and demonstrate some efficacy against renal cell carcinoma, prostate cancer, and ovarian cancer. They may also improve appetite and alleviate cancer-related cachexia in patients with advanced malignancies. What are the side effects of taking megestrol acetate soft capsules?
What Are the Side Effects of Megestrol Acetate Soft Capsules?
The main side effects of megestrol acetate soft capsules include weight gain, which is a common adverse reaction. In patients with advanced cancer-associated cachexia or unintentional weight loss, this effect is often beneficial. Thromboembolic events—such as thrombophlebitis and pulmonary embolism—are rarely reported.
Other reported reactions include breast tenderness, galactorrhea, vaginal bleeding, menstrual disorders, and facial flushing. Adrenal cortical (glucocorticoid-like) effects may occur, such as moon face, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. The incidence of uterine bleeding is approximately 1–2%. Nausea and vomiting are occasionally observed; dyspnea, heart failure, and rash are rare. Irregular vaginal bleeding has been reported in some women. When used at high doses for tumor treatment, Cushingoid features may develop. Prolonged use may lead to abnormal liver function.
Side effects and therapeutic effects can, under certain conditions, be interconvertible; the conceptual definition of a “side effect” may thus shift depending on the clinical objective. Side effects are often transient and resolve upon discontinuation of therapy; however, they may occasionally result in sequelae. We hope this information is helpful to you!
