Key points
- Assess every patient with advanced cancer and weight loss or poor appetite, and refer them for nutritional counselling [1].
- No drug is routinely recommended for cachexia; a progestin or a short course of corticosteroid only to improve appetite, weighing the side effects [1].
- Tube or parenteral feeding is not routinely recommended for cachexia in advanced cancer [1].
Assessment
Weight and its trend, appetite, treatable causes (pain, nausea, constipation, mouth sores, depression, swallowing problems, obstruction) and the expectations of the patient and family [1].
Treatment
| Intervention | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Nutritional counselling | Suggested; the aim is enjoyment of food and less worry |
| Oral supplements | According to individual need |
| Progestin (megestrol) | For appetite; risk of thrombosis and adrenal insufficiency |
| Corticosteroid (dexamethasone) | Short term (a few weeks) for appetite and energy |
| Tube or parenteral feeding | Not routinely, except in selected patients (for example obstruction with a long prognosis) |
References
1 referenceThis page is based on reputable scientific sources and was last updated on 28 October 2026. The content of this website is for educational and informational purposes only and does not replace consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a specialist physician. Consult your treating physician about any treatment decision.
Printed from the website; the full and up-to-date version: https://drdabiri.com/en/learn/cancer-cachexia-management/