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transdermal Megace

Milton S. Hershey Medical Center · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Megestrol acetate is a progestin that stimulates appetite and promotes weight gain by acting on the hypothalamus and increasing food intake.

Megestrol acetate is a progestin that stimulates appetite and promotes weight gain by acting on the hypothalamus and increasing food intake. Used for Cancer-related cachexia and anorexia, HIV/AIDS-related wasting syndrome, Appetite stimulation in patients with advanced malignancy.

At a glance

Generic nametransdermal Megace
SponsorMilton S. Hershey Medical Center
Drug classProgestin; appetite stimulant
TargetProgesterone receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOncology; Palliative care; Cachexia
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Megestrol acetate is a synthetic progestin derivative that acts as an appetite stimulant and anabolic agent. It increases appetite through central nervous system effects and promotes weight gain and lean body mass accumulation. The transdermal formulation delivers the drug through the skin to provide sustained systemic exposure for appetite stimulation and nutritional support.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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