Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Transdermal Megestrol Acetate

Summary

Rationale: Megestrol acetate (Megace®) is a progestin analog that is FDA approved for the palliative treatment of breast and endometrial carcinoma. It is also commonly used as an appetite stimulant, particularly in HIV and cancer patients with poor appetite from their primary disease and/or their therapy. Megace is well absorbed orally, however, many patients, particularly younger ones have difficulty taking oral medications. Transdermal progestins are available and are FDA approved. For example, Ortho EvraTM is a transdermal contraceptive patch containing an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and a progestin (norelgestromin). Key Objectives: Compare the pharmacokinetics of orally administered vs. transdermal Megace and determine if there are any local side effects of the transdermal route.

Timeline

Start

2005-10

Primary completion

2012-12

Completion

2012-12

Drugs

Indications