The weight change associated with megestrol acetate is largely due to which components?

• A. Lean muscle mass
• B. Adipose tissue and edema
• C. Bone mineral content
• D. Total body water

Answer: (B)

Weight gain from megestrol acetate is driven mainly by increases in adipose tissue and fluid retention (edema). The medication acts as an appetite stimulant, often leading to higher caloric intake that gets stored as fat. It can also promote fluid retention, contributing to edema and added weight. Lean muscle mass and bone mineral content do not typically rise with this therapy, so the overall weight change reflects fat gain plus edema rather than increases in muscle or bone. Total body water may rise with edema, but the primary contributors are adipose tissue gain and fluid retention.