Study on Megestrol Acetate and Ibuprofen for Weight Loss in Cancer Patients
Author Information
Author(s): McMillan D C, Wigmore S J, Fearon K C H, O'Gorman P, Wright C E, McArdle C S
Primary Institution: University Department of Surgery, Royal Infirmary, Glasgow
Hypothesis
Does the combination of megestrol acetate and ibuprofen improve weight loss outcomes in gastrointestinal cancer patients compared to megestrol acetate and placebo?
Conclusion
The combination of megestrol acetate and ibuprofen reversed weight loss and improved quality of life in patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancer.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients receiving megestrol acetate and ibuprofen gained weight, while those on megestrol acetate and placebo lost weight.
- Quality of life improved in the megestrol acetate and ibuprofen group.
Takeaway
This study tested a medicine called megestrol acetate with ibuprofen to help cancer patients who were losing weight, and it worked better than just megestrol acetate alone.
Methodology
Patients were randomized to receive either megestrol acetate with placebo or megestrol acetate with ibuprofen for 12 weeks, with various assessments conducted at baseline, 4–6 weeks, and 12 weeks.
Limitations
A significant number of patients (63%) did not complete the 12-week assessment.
Participant Demographics
Patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancer experiencing weight loss.
Statistical Information
P-Value
< 0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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