How do you give intrathecal methotrexate?
Intrathecal methotrexate is given through a needle which is inserted in one of the spaces between the bones in the lower back into the CSF, usually under general anaesthesia. This is known as a lumbar puncture. When drugs are given in this way, they are said to be given intrathecally.
How often is intrathecal methotrexate given?
For treatment, in general, you’ll likely get two doses a week at first and then one weekly or monthly. The biologic rituximab, sometimes in combination with methotrexate, is used for some types of lymphoma.
What does intrathecal chemotherapy treat?
Treatment in which anticancer drugs are injected into the fluid-filled space between the thin layers of tissue that cover the brain and spinal cord. Intrathecal chemotherapy. Anticancer drugs are injected into the intrathecal space, which is the space that holds the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF, shown in blue).
How is intrathecal injection administered?
Intrathecal injection
- You will sit and bend over or lie on your side.
- Your back will be carefully cleaned.
- The anesthesiologist will numb your skin.
- Once your skin is numb, the anesthesiologist places a special needle into your back and into the spinal space.
- He or she will inject the medicine into this space.
Where is intrathecal injection given?
Intrathecal drug administration is the introduction of a therapeutic substance into the cerebrospinal fluid by injection into the subarachnoid space of the spinal cord to bypass the blood-brain barrier. The main indications are for anesthesia and pain management.
Which drugs must never be given by intrathecal administration?
Accidental administration of any vinca alkaloids—especially vincristine but also vinblastine, vinorelbine, or others—via the intrathecal route is nearly always fatal.
Which of the following is a potential side effect of intrathecal methotrexate?
Intrathecal methotrexate can cause headaches, dizziness, tiredness, blurry bision, and loss of balance for several hours.
When do you give intrathecal chemotherapy?
When is intrathecal chemotherapy used? In some cancers, such as some types of leukaemia or lymphoma, cancer cells can pass into the CSF. Chemotherapy given into a vein or by mouth cannot easily get into the CSF. Intrathecal chemotherapy may be given if a cancer has spread to the CSF, or if there is a risk it could.
What chemo should never be given Intrathecally?
Vincristine, a medicine commonly used in the treatment of leukaemias and lymphomas, is neurotoxic and must only be administered intravenously. Sentinel events associated with the inadvertent intrathecal administration of vincristine have been repeatedly reported in Australia and overseas.
What are the side effects of intrathecal chemotherapy?
Some side effects intrathecal chemotherapy can include:
- weakness or tiredness.
- back pain.
- headache.
- dizziness.
- nausea and vomiting.
- fever.
- allergic reaction to chemotherapy medication.
How is intrathecal chemotherapy given?
Intrathecal chemotherapy is when chemotherapy is given into the fluid around the spinal cord during a lumbar puncture. A doctor or specially trained nurse will do the lumbar puncture. Your doctor or nurse will usually give you a local anaesthetic first.