Megestrol Acetate 20 mg, 40 mg, 160 mg, 625 mg Suppliers & Bulk Manufacturers

Available Forms: Tablet

Available Strengths: 20 mg, 40 mg, 160 mg, 625 mg

Reference Brands: Megace (US & EU), Megestat® (EU)

Category: Oncology Cancer Care

Megestrol acetate tablets 20 mg to 160 mg, a progestogen for palliative hormonal therapy of breast and endometrial cancer, with the 625 mg/5 mL suspension noted, for oncology pharmacies and importers.

Product Description:

Megestrol acetate is a synthetic progestogen. In hormone-sensitive cancers it opposes oestrogen-driven growth, partly by suppressing pituitary gonadotrophins and partly through progesterone receptors in tumour tissue. It also has glucocorticoid-like activity and stimulates appetite. Tablets are commonly made in 40 mg and 160 mg, with 20 mg in some markets. The 625 mg figure on this page matches the concentrated oral suspension, 625 mg per 5 mL, not a tablet.

Megestrol tablets are used for palliative hormonal treatment of advanced breast and endometrial cancer, typically after other hormonal options. The oral suspension is registered in some markets for marked weight loss and loss of appetite in AIDS. Key risks are venous thromboembolism, fluid retention, raised blood glucose and adrenal suppression. Abrupt withdrawal after long use can cause adrenal insufficiency, so steroid cover may be needed during stress or when stopping. It is contraindicated in pregnancy, and a history of thrombosis needs careful review.

Sourcing notes. Megestrol acetate is a prescription-only oncology medicine. Many hospitals handle it as a hazardous drug because of reproductive toxicity, so ask for handling guidance and avoid splitting or crushing tablets outside controlled conditions. Ask for a CTD or ACTD dossier with dissolution and bioequivalence data, plus zone IVb stability where needed. Store at room temperature, away from moisture. The CoA per batch should show assay, related substances, dissolution and uniformity of dosage units. Request the GMP certificate and a CoPP. For 625 mg/5 mL, enquire for the oral suspension specifically.