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Brand Name: Megace

Generic Name: megestrol

A progestin - Megestrol tablets are used to treat advanced breast or endometrial cancer

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What is this medicine?

Megace (me JES trol) 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 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

How should I use this medicine?

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?

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?

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

dofetilide

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider 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 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.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

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

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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