Effect of Megestrol Acetate on Serum Albumin Level in Malnourished Dialysis Patients

Objective Malnutrition is a common problem in dialysis patients, and may affect up to one third of patients. It is associated with high mortality and morbidity. Although a number of studies were performed to determine effective treatment, there is no proven medication for this condition. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of megestrol acetate (MA) on serum albumin levels in malnourished dialysis patients. Design This was a randomized, controlled clinical trial. Setting The setting, a dialysis center at Razi Hospital, Rasht, Iran, provides services to dialysis patients. Patients Twenty-two malnourished dialysis patients with persistent hypoalbuminemia (albumin,