# appetite stimulants --- **appetite stimulants** are a type of [[medicine]] that ## Mechanism of Action ## Contraindications ## Adverse Reactions ## Examples • Progestins: Megestrol • Antineoplastic may be from inhibition of pituitary function. Known to increase appetite and decrease cachexia • PO- tab or oral suspension • Common side effect- Long term use may lead to adrenal suppression • Monitor for potential adverse reaction- DVT. Teaching- should not get pregnant (teratogenic) and warn alopecia potential side effect • Cannaboids: Dronabinol (Marinol, THC) • Man-made THC. Known for chemotherapy induced N/ V but more effective for increasing Appetite (used to increase appetite in HIV patients) • PO/SL • SE: Dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, feeling "high, " an exaggerated sense of well-being, lightheadedness, nausea, & abdominal pain may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. • Also, **dexamethasone** low doses in AM in palliative and hospice patients can help with appetite (as well as energy and pain in bones from bone mets) ___