Question

Prior to initiating an order for an antimetabolite, it is important that:

a. a premedication is given

b. an antiemetic is ordered

c. the route is verified

d. IV access is established

Answer 1

ANTIMETABOLITES DRUGS

Antimetabolites are the drugs which inhibits the normal metabolic process. These interfere with one or more enzymes or their reactions which are necessary for DNA synthesis. Antimetabolites can used as chemotherapeutic drug or as antibiotic.

Examples of antimetabolites as chemotherapeutic drug are 5-FU,Methotrexate, 6-Mercaptopurine, Floxuridine, Cytarabine

Example of antimetabolites as antibiotic is sulfanilamides

Routes of administration depends on the drug and disease condition

The common side effects are mild nausea, vomiting, head ache ,dizziness, inflammation of mouth and lips, hair loss, skin rash, dry and cracked skin

a. Incorrect

Not necessary to give any premedication before administering antimetabolites

b. Incorrect

An antiemetic drug is usually administered after 3-4 cycles of chemotherapy

c. Correct

Routes is verified before initiating an order  for an antimetabolites. The route of administraion may depends on drug or disease condition

Example 5 FU may be administered bolous IV infusion or continuous IV infusion or oral form. For treating the skin cancer topical application is used

Methotrexate is used as slow IV for chemotherapy

Floxuridine can be administred intra arterial for colorectal cancer

Cytarabine can be administerd IV injection or infusion, subcutaneous or intrathecal

d. Incorrect

IV access has to established based on the routes of administration. If the drug is prescribed for IV bolus or IV infusion IV access has to be established prior to initiating the order for an antimetabolites.