Megestrol acetate
Megestrol Acetate
Megestrol Acetate (pronounced meh-JES-trol AS-e-tate) is a synthetic derivative of the hormone progesterone, used primarily as an appetite stimulant and in the treatment of endometrial cancer and breast cancer.
Etymology
The term "Megestrol" is derived from the words "megas", meaning "great" in Greek, and "strol", a common suffix for synthetic steroids. "Acetate" refers to the acetic acid ester that is formed during the drug's synthesis.
Usage
Megestrol Acetate is used to treat loss of appetite and weight loss in people with AIDS, and to treat advanced breast cancer and endometrial cancer. It works by affecting the hormone balance within the body, and by directly affecting the cancer cells.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Megestrol Acetate include weight gain, increased appetite, and fluid retention. More serious side effects can include blood clots, diabetes, and adrenal insufficiency.
Related Terms
- Progesterone: A hormone that plays a significant role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
- Endometrial Cancer: A type of cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus.
- Breast Cancer: A type of cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts.
- Appetite Stimulant: A substance that increases the desire to eat.
- AIDS: Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
- Steroids: A large class of organic compounds with a characteristic molecular structure containing four rings of carbon atoms.
- Hormone: A regulatory substance produced in an organism and transported in tissue fluids such as blood to stimulate specific cells or tissues into action.
- Cancer Cells: Cells that grow and divide at an unregulated, quickened pace.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Megestrol acetate
- Wikipedia's article - Megestrol acetate
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