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Can Megestrol Cause Excessive Hair Growth In Women?

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Posted on Fri, 17 May 2013
Question: will megestrol cause excessive hair growth in women? it was prescribed by my oncologist during chemo therapy on an as needed basis for loss of appetite. i am experiencing loss of appetite suddenly. i want to use it again, because it works. but, i don't want to grow a moustach.
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Answered by Dr. Rohan Khandelwal (54 minutes later)
Dear Ma'am,

Sorry to hear about your problem. Megestrol is a commonly used appetite stimulant and being a steroid derivative, its commoon side effects are weight gain, nausea, vomiting, impotence, edema, breakthrough bleeding, and shortness of breath.
It can also induce thrombosis and lead to DVT and embolism. Excessive hair growth is an extremely rare side effect and you done need to worry about it if you are goign to use the drug for a short duration.

It is important that if you use the drug for more than 15-20 days, you gradually taper the dose and do not stop it abruptly as it can lead to adrenal suppression.
There is no harm in consulting your doctor before starting this drug.

Hoping for the best. Please feel free to clarify any other query.
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Rohan Khandelwal

Oncologist, Surgical

Practicing since :2008

Answered : 576 Questions

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Can Megestrol Cause Excessive Hair Growth In Women?

Dear Ma'am,

Sorry to hear about your problem. Megestrol is a commonly used appetite stimulant and being a steroid derivative, its commoon side effects are weight gain, nausea, vomiting, impotence, edema, breakthrough bleeding, and shortness of breath.
It can also induce thrombosis and lead to DVT and embolism. Excessive hair growth is an extremely rare side effect and you done need to worry about it if you are goign to use the drug for a short duration.

It is important that if you use the drug for more than 15-20 days, you gradually taper the dose and do not stop it abruptly as it can lead to adrenal suppression.
There is no harm in consulting your doctor before starting this drug.

Hoping for the best. Please feel free to clarify any other query.