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Delayed Methotrexate Clearance Despite Carboxypeptidase-G2 (Glucarpidase) Administration in 2 Patients With Toxic
Kirk D Wyatt1, Jeffrey Cooper2, Katherine Scott3
1Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
Abstract:
High-dose methotrexate has been a treatment for osteosarcoma; however, its nephrotoxic effects are considerable. Carboxypeptidase-G2 (glucarpidase) was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2012 for treatment of toxic methotrexate levels. We report our experience using glucarpidase under compassionate use before Food and Drug Administration approval in 2 patients who had delayed methotrexate clearance and prolonged kidney injury despite glucarpidase administration. Our results show that patients with methotrexate toxicity may require repeated doses of glucarpidase in addition to supportive measures, such as dialysis.
Insights
High-dose methotrexate can harm kidneys in osteosarcoma patients. Glucarpidase helps clear toxic methotrexate levels, but some patients may need repeated doses and dialysis for kidney injury.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Nephrology
Background:
- High-dose methotrexate is a standard osteosarcoma treatment.
- Methotrexate-induced nephrotoxicity is a significant clinical challenge.
- Carboxypeptidase-G2 (glucarpidase) is an FDA-approved enzyme for toxic methotrexate level reduction.
Observation:
- This report details the compassionate use of glucarpidase in two patients with osteosarcoma experiencing delayed methotrexate clearance.
- Both patients exhibited prolonged kidney injury despite initial glucarpidase administration.
- Supportive care, including dialysis, was crucial for managing renal complications.
Findings:
- Patients with severe methotrexate toxicity may require multiple glucarpidase administrations.
- Glucarpidase efficacy can be influenced by factors leading to delayed drug clearance.
- Aggressive supportive care is essential for mitigating methotrexate-induced kidney damage.
Implications:
- Repeated glucarpidase dosing may be necessary for optimal methotrexate clearance in select patients.
- Understanding factors contributing to delayed clearance is vital for refining treatment protocols.
- This case series highlights the importance of integrated supportive measures in managing high-dose chemotherapy toxicity.
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