Megestrol
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| Please help improve this article or section by expanding it. Further information might be found on the talk page or at requests for expansion. (December 2007) |
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Megestrol
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| Systematic (IUPAC) name | |
| 17-acetyl-17-hydroxy-6,10, 13-trimethyl-2,8,9,11,12,14,15,16- octahydro-1H-cyclopenta[ a] phenanthren-3-one | |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS number | |
| ATC code | G03 G03DB02, L02AB01 |
| PubChem | |
| DrugBank | |
| Chemical data | |
| Formula | C22H30O3 |
| Mol. mass | 342.472 g/mol |
| Pharmacokinetic data | |
| Bioavailability | ? |
| Metabolism | ? |
| Half life | 34 hours |
| Excretion | ? |
| Therapeutic considerations | |
| Pregnancy cat. |
contraindicated |
| Legal status | |
| Routes | ? |
Megestrol is a progesterone derivative with antineoplastic properties used in the treatment of advanced carcinoma of the breast and endometrium. When given in relatively high doses, Megestrol can substantially increase appetite in most individuals, even those with advanced cancer.
Megestrol Acetate Oral Suspension (a form of Megestrol) is used primarily as an appetite enhancer. The method of appetite enhancement is not known, but it can cause high blood sugar [1]. Currently, it is manufactured under the trade name Megace [2]

