Medication info

Zetrol Suspension (Megestrol Acetate)

Prescription medicationSuspensionOral
Ingredient · strength
Megestrol Acetate›4000mg / 100mL
Manufacturer / importer
JW Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
Appearance
A white to cream-colored suspension with orange flavor and scent in an opaque container that disperses easily when shaken.
Packaging
10mL, 20mL
Approval status
Active

MFDS item code 201402317 · Notified 2014.05.20 · Insurance code 644913631,644913633

Summary

Main use
Treatment of anorexia, cachexia, and unexplained marked weight loss in patients with cancer or AIDS
Who takes it
Adults
Adult dose
Shake well and take 800 mg (20 mL) of megestrol acetate once daily. In clinical trials, clinical efficacy was observed with daily doses of 400~800 mg (10∼20 mL) of this drug.

Ingredients

Manufacturer
JW Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Efficacy & effects

Treatment of anorexia, cachexia, and unexplained marked weight loss in patients with cancer or AIDS

  • Anorexia
  • cachexia
  • significant weight loss
View approved original text

This medication is used to treat anorexia, cachexia, or unexplained weight loss in patients with cancer or AIDS. These symptoms can diminish the quality of life for patients, and this medication helps improve appetite and weight loss, thereby aiding the patient's health status.

How to take

Adult dose

Shake well and take 800 mg (20 mL) of megestrol acetate once daily. In clinical trials, clinical efficacy was observed with daily doses of 400~800 mg (10∼20 mL) of this drug.

Precautions

This medication can cause severe harm to the fetus if administered to pregnant women, so women who are pregnant or possibly pregnant should not use it. Long-term use of this medication may lead to the onset of diabetes or exacerbate existing diabetes, and hormonal imbalances may result in symptoms of Cushing's syndrome. Prolonged use or sudden discontinuation of this medication may weaken adrenal function, so if symptoms such as hypotension, nausea, dizziness, or weakness occur, immediate consultation with a physician is advised. As the artificial sweetener aspartame contained in this medication is broken down into phenylalanine in the body, patients with the genetic disorder phenylketonuria should not take it. Individuals who have had allergies or hypersensitivity reactions to this medication should not use it, and patients with a history of thrombosis or diabetes should use it with caution. During treatment with this medication, side effects such as diarrhea, rash, abdominal distention, hypertension, weakness, insomnia, nausea, anemia, fever, decreased libido, dyspepsia, headache, and vomiting may occur, so any adverse symptoms should be reported to a healthcare professional. This medication is used for weight loss treatment, but the cause of weight loss must be thoroughly identified before use, and long-term use may increase the risk of respiratory infections. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take this medication, and women of childbearing age should ensure contraception during the treatment period. The safety and efficacy of this medication have not been sufficiently proven in children, so its use should be avoided. No specific severe side effects have been reported in case of overdose; however, since dialysis is ineffective in overdose cases, it is imperative to visit a medical institution immediately. This medication should be kept out of reach of children and must not be transferred to other containers. Animal studies have shown that this medication may affect the reproductive ability of male offspring and can cause weight loss and decreased survival rates in fetuses, as well as feminization of male fetuses, hence extreme caution is advised during pregnancy.

Side effects

Diarrhea

Not everyone experiences these, and they can vary from person to person.

Storage

This medication is sensitive to light and should be stored in a tightly sealed container that blocks light. A cool place with storage temperatures between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius is suitable. Proper storage will help maintain the effectiveness of the medication over a long period.

Appearance and packaging

Appearance

A white to cream-colored suspension with orange flavor and scent in an opaque container that disperses easily when shaken.

Package unit

10mL, 20mL

Same-ingredient medicines

Even with the same ingredient, strength, dosage form and how it is taken can differ.

Even with the same ingredient, the dose and directions can differ by strength and dosage form. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before switching from a medication you are already taking.

Questions about this medicine

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This drug information is based on data provided by the Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
Consult a doctor or pharmacist for accurate dosage, administration, and usage instructions.