High prevalence of adrenal suppression during acute illness in hospitalized patients receiving megestrol acetate

Abstract

MA use is associated with significant adrenal suppression in acutely ill individuals. This should alert physicians to the possibility of adrenal insufficiency and the need to assess for signs or symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, and mandates a low threshold for testing adrenal function in hospitalized patients taking MA.

Nanomemulsion of megestrol acetate for improved oral bioavailability and reduced food effect

“…Glucocorticoid-related adverse effects such as adrenal insufficiency, osteoporosis and electrolyte imbalances can be observed. Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting, and edema (Chidakel et al 2006). Stable and predictable pharmacokinetics is clinically very important to obtain reliable therapeutic efficacy and to avoid unwanted toxic events.…”

Hydrocortisone therapy in a cat with vasopressor‐refractory septic shock and suspected critical illness‐related corticosteroid insufficiency

“…Megestrol acetate administration has been associated with metropathies , and likely played a role in the development of pyometra in this cat. Moreover, MA administration may lead to reversible and potentially fatal HPA axis suppression in both humans and cats , thereby implicating it in the development of CIRCI itself. However, adrenocortical recovery after MA administration (2.5 mg/cat q24 h or 5 mg/cat q48 h for 2 weeks) was found to only require 2–4 weeks .…”

Emergencies in Hematology and Oncology

“…93 Furthermore, megestrol acetate is associated with adrenal insufficiency in acutely ill individuals. 94 Mitotane, a rarely used adrenolytic drug indicated for the management of adrenocortical carcinoma, invariably results in adrenal insufficiency, and all patients taking mitotane also need to take replacement corticosteroids. 95 Typical signs and symptoms of adrenal insufficiency include weakness, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and hypotension.…”