Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Megestrol as follows:
Cardiovascular side-effects
- Megestrol, secondary to the steroid activity it has, can result in retention of fluid. This can lead to elevated blood pressure, headache, dizziness, edema with swelling of hands and feet, and weight gain.
- This can be a serious issue, especially in individuals with history of hypertension. Acutely elevated blood pressure in these individuals can significantly increase the risk for development of stroke. Individuals, secondary to stroke can present with sudden weakness on one side of the body or any extremity, trouble speaking, and sudden deterioration of vision.
- Megestrol intake can result in thickening of blood and increases risk for clot formation. Individuals taking megestrol can present with signs of clot formation and deep venous thrombosis, such as sudden pain in the calf muscle, swelling of the extremities, changes with vision, episodes of cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
Metabolic side-effects
- Megestrol intake by diabetic individuals can result in poor blood sugar control and episodes of hyperglycemia. Diabetic individuals taking megestrol can present with episodes of confusion, dry mouth, frequent urination, increased thirst and hunger, dry skin, and blurred vision. Closely follow for these signs and any consistently elevated blood sugar readings, to be reported to your physician.
- Megestrol intake can also result in increased appetite and intake, which can lead to acutely increased weight gain.
