Dose-dependent effect of megestrol acetate supplementation in cancer patients with anorexia-cachexia syndrome: A meta-analysis
Talebi S, Zeraattalab-Motlagh S, Barkhordar M, Vaezi M
Published in Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle
Methodology
Dose-response meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials (1229 participants, mean age 60) of megestrol acetate in cancer-associated anorexia/cachexia, with body weight and appetite as primary outcomes.
Key Findings
Highest-versus-lowest analysis found no significant increase in body weight (MD 0.64 kg, 95% CI -0.11 to 1.38, P = 0.093), with dose-dependent but inconsistent appetite effects.
Conclusions
Even pharmacological appetite stimulation gives limited weight benefit in cancer anorexia, setting a realistic ceiling for nutritional approaches.
Limitations
Heterogeneous doses and cancer types, limited trial quality, and short durations.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Not stated
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