Active substance: Megestrol
Category: Progestogens
Uses:
- Treatment of hormone-dependent cancer (endometrial cancer, breast cancer);
- Treatment of anorexia, cachexia or unexplained weight loss.
Therapeutic effects:
- Exhibits anticancer properties by interacting with steroidal receptors;
- Suppresses steroid production by the adrenal glands and androgen secretion by the ovaries in postmenopausal women;
- Prevents the breakdown of cytokines and stimulates appetite in chronic disease-induced anorexia and cachexia.
Interaction with other drugs:
- Inform your doctor about any prescribed medicines, over-the-counter medications, nutritional and vitamin supplements and herbal products you are taking or have taken before the treatment.
Storage:
- Store below 25°C, protected from light and moisture.
How to consume:
- Swallow the tablet whole with water;
- The physician will decide the ideal dose depending on the condition.
Safety advices:
- Pregnancy: unsafe to consume during pregnancy;
- Breastfeeding: consult your physician before taking the tablet;
- Lungs: inform your physician if you have any lung diseases;
- Liver: inform your physician before starting the treatment if you have liver problems;
- Alcohol: it is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with the tablet;
- Driving: avoid driving or using machinery if you experience side effects.
Side effects:
- Serious: swelling of the face, lips, tongue; skin rash; breathing difficulty; blood clot in the lungs; heart problems;
- Common: weight gain and increased appetite; hot flushes; high BP; high blood sugar levels; rounded face; constipation; swelling of vein; mood changes; hair loss; diarrhoea; tiredness and weakness; impotence; passing wind; frequent urination; nausea, vomiting; fluid accumulation; pain.
Word of advice:
- Inform the doctor if the patient has any history of kidney, liver, or allergic reactions before starting this medication;
- Kidneys, liver, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels should be monitored while taking this medication;
- Avoid taking this medication while planning for pregnancy or during pregnancy;
- Do not stop taking the medication without proper advice from the doctor.
FAQs:
Does Cravihenz 160mg Tablet cause weight gain? Yes, it is a common side effect which is caused due to an increase in appetite. If there is excessive weight gain patients are advised to consult the doctor.
Is Cravihenz 160mg Tablet safe to use during pregnancy? No, it is unsafe to use Cravihenz 160mg Tablet during pregnancy.
Does Cravihenz 160mg Tablet stop periods? No, it doesn't stop periods and it can cause excessive bleeding. Consult the doctor if there is any excessive bleeding.
What are the side effects of the Cravihenz 160mg Tablet? The common side effects of Cravihenz 160mg Tablet are weight gain, increase in appetite, high blood pressure, constipation, rounded face, mood changes, hair loss, tiredness and weakness, nausea, vomiting, swelling of the vein.
How should I take the Cravihenz 160mg Tablet? Cravihenz 160mg Tablet should be taken as prescribed by the doctor and it can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time daily. It is important to take this medicine even when the patient is feeling well and do not stop this medication without the proper advice of the doctor as it will worsen the condition.
Can I drive after taking the Cravihenz 160mg Tablet? It is unsafe to use Cravihenz 160mg Tablet while driving as it causes dizziness and patients may lack concentration and alertness.
Fact box:
- Molecule name: Megestrol;
- Therapeutic class: Progestins;
- Pharmacological class: Anti-Neoplastics;
- Indications:
- Treatment of hormone-dependent cancer (endometrial cancer, breast cancer);
- Treatment of anorexia, cachexia or unexplained weight loss.