Megestrol acetate in palliative care carries which potential risk?

Study for ELNEC 4: Symptom Management in Palliative Care Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Hints and explanations included! Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Megestrol acetate in palliative care carries which potential risk?

Megestrol acetate carries a risk of venous thromboembolism. Progestins can promote a prothrombotic state, increasing the chance of events like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, especially in cancer patients who are older, immobile, dehydrated, or have prior thrombosis. Monitor for signs such as new leg swelling, warmth, redness, chest pain, or sudden shortness of breath, and reevaluate therapy if these occur. Other listed risks (hypotension, hyperkalemia, bradycardia) are not typical concerns with this drug in palliative care.

Megestrol acetate carries a risk of venous thromboembolism. Progestins can promote a prothrombotic state, increasing the chance of events like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, especially in cancer patients who are older, immobile, dehydrated, or have prior thrombosis. Monitor for signs such as new leg swelling, warmth, redness, chest pain, or sudden shortness of breath, and reevaluate therapy if these occur. Other listed risks (hypotension, hyperkalemia, bradycardia) are not typical concerns with this drug in palliative care.

More practice questions