General Information
Megestrol acetate is a synthetic derivative of the hormone progesterone, which is naturally produced in the body. The mechanism of action of megestrol involves binding to progesterone receptors, acting as an agonist (activator) of these receptors. By binding to these receptors, megestrol exerts progestational effects on various tissues in the body. In its finished dose form, Megestrol acetate is administered orally to treat anorexia and cachexia or serious unexplained weight loss and is also used as an antineoplastic agent to treat certain types of cancer.