How does megestrol acetate affect diabetes?

How does megestrol acetate affect diabetes?

• A. It improves blood glucose control in diabetes mellitus
• B. It has no effect on diabetes
• C. It can exacerbate underlying diabetes mellitus
• D. It cures diabetes

Answer: (C)

Megestrol acetate can worsen blood glucose control in people with diabetes because it has metabolic effects that rise glucose levels and it often increases appetite leading to weight gain. As a progestin with glucocorticoid-like activity, it can promote insulin resistance and higher hepatic glucose production, making it harder to keep blood sugar in target range. The increased caloric intake and weight gain from appetite stimulation further strain glycemic control, so diabetes management often needs adjustment of medications and closer monitoring. It is not a cure and does not improve glucose control; it may actually worsen it in many patients.

Megestrol acetate can worsen blood glucose control in people with diabetes because it has metabolic effects that rise glucose levels and it often increases appetite leading to weight gain. As a progestin with glucocorticoid-like activity, it can promote insulin resistance and higher hepatic glucose production, making it harder to keep blood sugar in target range. The increased caloric intake and weight gain from appetite stimulation further strain glycemic control, so diabetes management often needs adjustment of medications and closer monitoring. It is not a cure and does not improve glucose control; it may actually worsen it in many patients.