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Megestrol

This form:

Pronounced

"meh-JESS-troll"

Common brand names:

Megace

Uses

This medication is used to treat cancer of the breast or uterus. Megestrol is similar to a natural substance made by your body called progesterone.

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 drug may also be used for cancer of the ovaries or prostate. It may also be used to counter unhealthy weight loss in people with certain conditions (such as cancer, AIDS) by improving their appetite.

How to Use This Medication

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. The dosage and how often you take this medication are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.

Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets.