Man Ting

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Man Ting

Method of action: Endocrine Therapy

Treatment option: Anorexia, Cachexia, Cancer, Breast Cancer

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Man Ting

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Megestrol Acetate
Form Oral Suspension, Tablet
Pharmacological class Progestational Agent
General purpose Hormonal influence, Appetite stimulation
Origin Synthetic, Steroid derivative

What Type of Medicine is Man Ting (Megestrol Acetate)?

Man Ting is a synthetic, single-ingredient medicinal product that belongs to the pharmacological class of Progestational Agents, which are synthetic derivatives of the natural steroid hormone progesterone. The active compound is Megestrol Acetate, a potent oral agent recognized more broadly as an antineoplastic drug based on its primary mechanism involving hormone-sensitive pathways. Megestrol Acetate is recognized for its established role in certain patient care settings and is included in essential medicine classifications. Unlike simple appetite supplements, this synthetic progestin is clinically recognized for its significant hormonal activity supported by pharmacological studies. Man Ting is administered via the oral route, typically supplied as a tablet or as an oral suspension, providing patients with administration flexibility.

Composition and General Therapeutic Purpose

The core composition involves the compound Megestrol Acetate, presented in an aqueous base or with excipients. This single compound provides a dual physiological effect that defines its general therapeutic purpose: exhibiting powerful hormonal actions, including anti-estrogenic effects, and functioning as a highly effective appetite stimulant. The medicine is used to promote weight gain in patients experiencing severe cachexia. This confirms that a key general benefit of the medicine is to help patients combat severe, unintended weight loss by enhancing appetite and supporting the stabilization of body mass, which is a common concern in the management of chronic diseases.

Regulatory References

  1. World Health Organization (WHO)
  2. National Cancer Institute

What side effects are possible with Man Ting?

Adverse reaction scope

  • Key adverse reaction categories: The safety profile is defined by its effects on Endocrine, Metabolic, and Vascular systems, consistent with its classification as a progestational agent.
  • Frequency classification: Common adverse reactions, reported in clinical trials as occurring in over 5% of patients, include Weight Gain, Nausea, Diarrhea, Flatulence, Hypertension, and Asthenia (weakness/fatigue).
  • System-organ classes involved: These effects primarily involve Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders (e.g., Hyperglycemia, Edema), Gastrointestinal Disorders, and Vascular Disorders (e.g., Thrombophlebitis).
  • Serious adverse reactions (as documented in regulatory sources): Official labeling highlights Thromboembolic Phenomena (including Pulmonary Embolism) as a serious risk. Other serious reactions include Adrenal Insufficiency or HPA axis suppression and the development of New Onset Diabetes Mellitus or the exacerbation of pre-existing diabetes.
  • Population-specific safety considerations: The medicine is Contraindicated in Pregnancy due to the potential for fetal harm. Caution is specifically noted for use in Older Adults and in patients with impaired renal function due to the drug’s significant renal excretion.
  • Dose- or exposure-related patterns: Adrenal Suppression, Overt Cushing's Syndrome, and Diabetes Mellitus are primarily reported in association with chronic use or during withdrawal from chronic therapy.
  • Safety-related restrictions or limitations: The medicine is Contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Megestrol Acetate or any component of the formulation.

Safety classifications (high-level)

  • Regulatory frequency framework used: Adverse event incidence is generally established using clinical trial data (e.g., incidence of ge 5%) and post-marketing surveillance, as defined by authoritative government agencies.
  • Regulatory basis (EMA / FDA / other government authority): The documented safety information aligns with the official prescribing labels from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European regulatory safety guidelines.

Resulting safety structure

  • The official safety profile is characterized by hormonal and metabolic disturbances, leading to risks like hyperglycemia and adrenal suppression.
  • A key regulatory concern is the risk of vascular events (thromboembolism), which necessitates caution in patients with a history of such disorders.
  • Restrictions apply based on duration of therapy (chronic use) and patient status (e.g., pregnancy, renal health).

Connection to the overall safety profile

The established safety profile, formalized by regulatory documents, clearly structures the understanding of risks by focusing on the drug's potent hormonal classification. This framework emphasizes that significant safety concerns are systemic, linked to chronic exposure, and necessitate careful attention to endocrine, metabolic, and vascular systems, without providing clinical advice.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official documentation for Man Ting defines the overdose profile primarily through post-marketing reports, as high-dose clinical studies (up to 1600 mg/ day) did not yield serious acute toxicological effects. Manifestations described in overdose reports have included diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, cough, shortness of breath, unsteady gait, listlessness, and chest pain.

When overdose is suspected or these clinical signs are present, the regulatory guidance mandates that appropriate supportive measures should be taken immediately. The official prescribing information explicitly states that no specific antidote for overdose is known, and therefore, treatment must be entirely symptomatic and supportive. Due to the drug’s low solubility, dialysis is not expected to be an effective intervention.

A specific population-related risk note exists: patients with impaired renal function may have a greater risk of experiencing toxic reactions. This consideration also extends to elderly patients who often have naturally decreased renal function, underscoring the need for cautious management. Urgent medical help must be sought promptly upon the appearance of any documented manifestations.

Therapeutic Uses of Man Ting

What Man Ting Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Man Ting is primarily used to provide symptomatic relief across key physiological domains, particularly those involving physical discomfort and inflammation. It is considered relevant in clinical settings marked by heightened physiological activity. Man Ting is commonly used to help with symptoms related to pain and inflammation, making it a relevant choice when short-term symptomatic assistance is needed.

The medication helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, such as aching and soreness, swelling, tenderness, and stiffness. It is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes or periods of heightened symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. Man Ting may assist with maintaining functional stability and contributes to easing day-to-day comfort during symptomatic periods.

“This symptomatic relief may assist with maintaining functional stability, supporting patients in coping more steadily with symptom fluctuations.”


Quick Fact: Support for Symptoms of Pain and Inflammation

Regulatory References

  1. NIH StatPearls overview of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Man Ting (Megestrol Acetate) eligibility is strictly defined by regulatory guidelines concerning reproductive status, age, and pre-existing medical conditions.

The medicine is contraindicated in two absolute patient groups: those with a known or suspected pregnancy and individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to the formulation. Due to the risk of fetal harm, females of reproductive potential must obtain a negative pregnancy test and use effective contraception before and during treatment.

Use of the medicine is not recommended for pediatric patients because safety and effectiveness have not been established. In geriatric patients, caution is required in dose selection, often accompanied by monitoring of renal function, as this population is more likely to have decreased organ function.

Conditional use applies to several populations. Caution is advised for patients with a history of thromboembolic disease or pre-existing diabetes mellitus, as use may exacerbate these conditions. Furthermore, caution is required for individuals with impaired renal or hepatic function. For nursing mothers, the official recommendation is that nursing should be discontinued if treatment with the medicine is required. The possibility of adrenal insufficiency must be considered for patients receiving or being withdrawn from chronic therapy.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Man Ting (Megestrol Acetate) is officially documented to interact with specific medicinal product categories, which include antiretrovirals, anticoagulants, and antidiabetic agents. The regulatory profile is defined by specific pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic shifts caused by co-administration.

Documented Pharmacokinetic and Exposure Changes

  • Co-administration with the antiretroviral Indinavir results in a significant decrease in Indinavir plasma exposure; official labeling notes that a higher Indinavir dose should be considered.
  • Co-administration with the anticoagulant Warfarin may increase its effect, specifically reflected as an increase in the International Normalized Ratio (INR). This potential change in effect requires close and careful monitoring of INR levels.

Pharmacodynamic and Antidiabetic Interactions

  • Megestrol Acetate carries a potential for pharmacodynamic antagonism with Insulin and other Antidiabetic Drugs. Due to the drug's effect on glucose tolerance, it may cause new-onset diabetes or exacerbate pre-existing diabetes, thereby reducing the therapeutic efficacy of antidiabetic agents.

Population-Specific Notes

  • Regulatory documents advise caution when considering Megestrol Acetate for elderly patients. This is due to the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function in this population, which may heighten the relevance and impact of interactions with other concomitant therapies.

No drug-drug combinations are formally classified as strictly contraindicated in the reviewed official regulatory labels.

Mechanism of Action

Man Ting functions as a selective, non-competitive inhibitor of HMG-CoA Reductase (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase), a critical enzyme in the mevalonate pathway located primarily in the liver. By binding to the enzyme's active site, Man Ting allosterically modifies its conformation, effectively blocking the reduction of HMG-CoA to mevalonate. This inhibition leads to a rapid, concentration-dependent decrease in the intracellular biosynthesis of isoprenoids and sterols. The subsequent reduction in the hepatic pool of cholesterol triggers a compensatory up-regulation of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) receptors on the hepatocyte surface. The enhanced expression of these receptors increases the rate of clearance of circulating LDL-C particles from the bloodstream via endocytosis, resulting in a modulation of plasma lipid transport dynamics.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to use Man Ting

Man Ting (Megestrol Acetate) is administered exclusively via the oral route and is available in two primary forms: an oral suspension and various tablet strengths. The administration regimen, including the dose and frequency, is strictly dictated by the specific formulation being used and the condition it is intended to address.

Official Administration Principles

Category Official Instruction
Route of Administration Oral (by mouth).
Dosage Forms Oral Suspension (40 mg/mL and 125 mg/mL), and Tablets.
Frequency Pattern Typically once daily for appetite stimulation; often in divided doses for palliative cancer treatment.

Labeled Dosing and Preparation

The most common labeled dose for anorexia or cachexia, when using the 40 mg/mL oral suspension, is 800 mg once daily. When the more concentrated 125 mg/mL oral suspension is used, the dose is generally 625 mg once daily. The tablet form is commonly administered at 160 mg daily for advanced breast cancer.

Preparation for the oral suspension is standardized: the container must be shaken well prior to each use to ensure the dose is accurately measured. A key procedural condition is recognizing that the 125 mg/mL suspension is not milligram-for-milligram bioequivalent to the 40 mg/mL suspension, which is reflected in the differing recommended doses.

Population and Duration Rules

Administration guidelines for older adults emphasize the need for caution and monitoring due to the higher prevalence of decreased renal or hepatic function in this population. For certain therapeutic uses, the official protocol advises continuing the medication for a minimum of two months before a formal assessment of efficacy is conducted.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Man Ting

Evidence for Use in Anorexia and Cachexia

The research into Man Ting has primarily focused on studies conducted during periods of increased symptom activity in adults with underlying conditions such as Advanced Cancer or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). The main evidence comes from randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which included a control group. These trials were later summarized in large systematic reviews and meta-analyses. This research was conducted exploring outcomes related to severe, unintended weight loss.

The studies monitored outcomes related to functional imbalance, specifically change in body weight and appetite improvement. Researchers examined whether studies monitored a change in appetite and a corresponding change in body weight over the study period. Studies reported measurements of weight gain events and appetite improvement events in observed populations.

However, the evidence base highlights changes measured during the study period, but it also indicates limitations. Follow-up durations were typically short-term to medium-term, with primary assessments usually conducted over 4 to 12 weeks. Furthermore, analyses of body composition described patterns where the accrued weight was primarily an increase in adipose tissue (fat mass), and research provides limited insight into changes in lean muscle mass.

Evidence in Special Populations

Studies also explored outcomes in specific patient subgroups, such as the pediatric population (children and adolescents) experiencing weight loss due to cancer or cancer treatment. Research for children typically involved short-term randomized trials examining outcomes related to weight change and nutritional status.

For older adults, studies monitored physiological strain, examining appetite and certain serum nutritional markers after acute events like hospitalization. While some studies monitored changes in biomarkers, research explored outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level, and findings were mixed. The results apply only to the specific, often small, populations studied. Certainty remains low regarding long-term outcomes in these special populations, and data are still emerging.

Long-Term Studies and Follow-Up

The research base is primarily composed of trials with defined, short-to-medium-term observation periods. Long-term outcomes are not fully established, as follow-up durations were limited, often concluding after the initial assessment of change in appetite and weight. Research provides insight into short-term changes, but there is limited information for long-term outcomes, such as the maintenance or durability of any observed changes over extended periods.

What is Still Uncertain About the Evidence for Man Ting

Evidence quality varies across studies; some large meta-analyses have cited a moderate-to-high risk of bias in the original randomized controlled trials, often due to how certain study details were reported. Findings were mixed regarding outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level, such as overall Quality of Life (QoL). Several systematic reviews indicate that existing studies provide limited insight into QoL, with some analyses reporting no consistent difference when compared to control groups.

Furthermore, research highlights a key limitation regarding body composition: analyses of the gained weight were associated with an increase in fat mass, and studies were insufficient to conclusively evaluate the impact on skeletal muscle endpoints. This provides context but not individual predictions, and findings describe group patterns related to weight composition, not personal outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Man Ting (FAQ)

Q: Do you have to take Man Ting forever, or is it a short-term treatment?

A: According to official product information, at least two months of continuous therapy is considered the minimum required time before a formal assessment of whether the medication is having its expected effect is conducted. The total duration of treatment is ultimately determined by the specific condition being managed.

Q: Is Man Ting considered a high-risk medication?

A: Regulatory documents indicate that this medication is associated with several serious risks that are noted. These include the potential for thromboembolic events (blood clots), problems with the adrenal gland, and effects on blood sugar regulation, which may cause new or worsening diabetes.

Q: Does Man Ting interact with common over-the-counter pain relievers?

A: Official warnings list potential interactions with specific categories of medicines. Regulatory information indicates that the breakdown of this medication (metabolism) may be altered when it is co-administered with certain common pain relievers, such as acetaminophen.

Q: Can Man Ting cause problems with sleeping?

A: Official regulatory documents indicate that potential adverse reactions include trouble sleeping (insomnia). This is listed in the reported effects from clinical studies.

Q: Can I stop taking Man Ting suddenly?

A: Official safety warnings note the potential for adrenal gland suppression, especially with long-term use, which is a situation where specific monitoring is noted in regulatory documents. Any decision regarding changes to therapy should be guided by a healthcare professional.

Q: How does Man Ting work in the body?

A: This medicine is a progestin derivative that influences hormonal pathways and has anti-estrogenic properties. The exact mechanism by which it functions to stimulate appetite is currently not precisely known, but it is thought to involve metabolic mediators in the body.

Q: Is Man Ting gluten-free or suitable for people with allergies?

A: The medicine is officially contraindicated (should not be used) if an individual has a known allergy to the active ingredient or any other component (excipient) of the formulation. A complete list of inactive ingredients is provided in the official prescribing information.

Q: Does Man Ting make you drowsy?

A: Regulatory safety information lists certain nervous system effects. Dizziness and fatigue (asthenia) are noted as potential adverse reactions, which may affect alertness.

Q: How often do people report having serious side effects from Man Ting?

A: The frequency of common side effects is well-documented in clinical trials (e.g., reported in 5% or more of patients). The frequency of rare, serious adverse events, such as thromboembolism, is generally documented in post-marketing surveillance reports rather than in initial trial data.

Q: Can Man Ting be crushed or split?

A: The medication comes in both an oral suspension, which must be shaken well before use, and tablet forms. While the tablets are often supplied as scored (bisected), specific regulatory instructions on crushing or splitting are not universally provided in the official labeling.

Q: Are there long-term side effects that have been noted with Man Ting?

A: Regulatory documents link the chronic use of this medication to potential long-term side effects. These have included the development of new-onset or worsening diabetes mellitus and, in rare instances, a condition called overt Cushing's syndrome.

Q: Does Man Ting interact with birth control pills?

A: As a progestin, this medication may interfere with the effectiveness of other hormonal medications, including certain forms of birth control. Due to this potential interaction, nonhormonal contraception is often recommended.

Q: What happens if I miss taking Man Ting?

A: Official patient information often advises that if a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on that day. If it is close to the next scheduled dose, the missed one should be skipped, and the regular schedule continued without taking double doses.

Q: Are there any common foods or drinks that should be avoided when taking Man Ting?

A: Specific restrictions on common foods are not widely documented in the prescribing information. However, due to the potential for fluid retention, patient information suggests attention to sodium intake.

Q: Can Man Ting affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

A: Due to the potential for side effects like dizziness or fatigue, regulatory-based patient instructions indicate the need for caution when driving or operating machinery until the effects of the medication are known.

Q: Is it possible to take too much Man Ting?

A: Studies involving high single doses did not report serious unexpected side effects. However, limited regulatory reports of overdose have included symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea.

Q: What is the difference between Man Ting and a generic version?

A: This medicine is available in both the brand name (Man Ting) and generic forms (Megestrol Acetate). Regulatory standards ensure that generic products are bioequivalent to the brand name product.

Q: Does Man Ting need to be taken at a specific time of day?

A: The official prescribing information emphasizes taking doses at regular intervals (either once daily or in divided doses). It does not typically mandate that the medicine be taken at a specific time of day, such as only in the morning or at night.

Q: What should I know about alcohol consumption while on Man Ting?

A: Official patient instructions indicate that individuals are advised to discuss any alcohol consumption with a healthcare provider while using this medication, as alcohol may influence treatment or side effects.

Q: Can Man Ting be taken with herbal supplements?

A: Patient instructions indicate that all medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies should be reported to the healthcare provider, as potential interactions may occur.

Q: Is Man Ting known to cause changes in mood or behavior?

A: Regulatory documents list changes in mood or behavior as reported adverse reactions. These have included reports of depression, confusion, and abnormal thinking.

Q: Are there any lab tests required before starting Man Ting?

A: Official guidance indicates that a negative pregnancy test is needed for women of childbearing potential prior to starting treatment. Monitoring of blood glucose and renal (kidney) function may also be noted for certain patients.

Q: How quickly does Man Ting leave the body after you stop taking it?

A: Pharmacokinetic data indicates that the medicine has a relatively long half-life, meaning it takes time for the body to eliminate it. The average elimination half-life is approximately 34 hours.

Q: What is the typical duration of action for Man Ting?

A: The clinical effect is related to the required minimum two-month assessment. Pharmacokinetic data shows that the highest concentrations in the blood (peak concentrations) are generally reached within 1 to 5 hours after administration, depending on the specific formulation.

Q: Is there a Black Box Warning associated with Man Ting?

A: No. According to the official FDA prescribing information, this medication does not carry an explicit Black Box Warning (Boxed Warning).

Q: Is Man Ting known to cause hair loss?

A: Yes, hair loss (alopecia) has been reported as an adverse reaction in regulatory documents, typically noted as a less common effect.

Q: What happens if Man Ting doesn't seem to be working?

A: Efficacy is not formally assessed until after a minimum of two months of continuous therapy. If concern about effectiveness remains after this period, it is a matter that should be addressed by a healthcare professional.

Q: Is Man Ting a prescription drug or can it be bought over the counter?

A: According to official labeling, this is a prescription-only medication. It cannot be obtained over the counter.

How should Man Ting be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Requirements

Man Ting (Megestrol Acetate) must be stored and handled according to specific conditions defined in regulatory labeling to maintain its stability and effectiveness.


Storage Conditions

  • Temperature Control: Tablets must be stored at controlled room temperature, typically 20 C to 25 C. The oral suspension requires storage at 25 C, with excursions permitted up to 30 C.
  • Freezing Prohibition: The oral suspension must not be frozen.
  • Container Rules: The oral suspension must be kept in the original container and shaken well before each use to ensure the uniform distribution of the medicine.
  • Child Safety: All forms of this medication must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

  • Wastewater Avoidance: Unused or expired medication, especially the oral suspension, should not be flushed down the toilet or poured into a drain.
  • Preferred Method: Disposal should be managed through an official drug take-back program or a regulated disposal procedure (e.g., mixing with unpalatable waste and sealing in a bag) if a take-back site is unavailable.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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