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We used to give methotrexate to ectopics in our outpatient chemo department (OB office would send them). You need to follow strict guidelines for the administration of hazardous drugs, as this is an antineoplastic agent. This means a gown and gloves, also a mask with eye protection if there is a potentation for splashing. Be sure to use a needle with a safety-lock device to avoid sticks. Any other questions, send me a PM.
why do you give a chemo drug to ectopics? Sorry, I'm a psych nurse and don't know much about ob.
When diagnosed early, the ectopic pregnancy is confined to the fallopian tube and small enough that the tube is not in danger of rupture. Methotrexate is given to stop the growth of rapidly dividing cells (which applies to both malignant cells and embroynic cells). Methotrexate essentially terminates the pregnancy and allows the products of conception to be passed from the body without surgical intervention.
Surgery is avoided, if at all possible, because scarring and adhesions could impair a woman's future fertility and increase risk of preterm labor in future pregnancies.
http://www.webmd.com/baby/methotrexate-for-ectopic-pregnancy
why do you give a chemo drug to ectopics? Sorry, I'm a psych nurse and don't know much about ob.
Methotrexate is a folic acid inhibitor.......since folic acid is necessary for cell division, giving methotrexate will cause the embryo in an ectopic pregnancy to cease cell division (die), it is then reabsorbed by the body. It is only given for unruptured ectopic.
FLOBRN
169 Posts
Are any of you giving methotrexate on your OB unit for ectopics? I have found much info on the drug but none on any safety considertions for the administering nurse. Do you just wear regular gloves? Anything else special? Pharmacywill, of course, be calculating the doses.
thanks
FLOBRN