Presentation
1000 units/vial
SAS
Role
Glucarpidase is used in the management of methotrexate poisoning, usually from high-dose IV methotrexate therapy, in patients that have developed acute kidney failure. It is a bacterial enzyme that cleaves methotrexate to form non-toxic 2,4-diamino-N10-methylpteroic acid (DAMPA) and glutamate.
Use should only be under the direction of an oncologist or clinical toxicologist. Contact a clinical toxicologist through the local toxicology service or via the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.
Dose
50 units/kg IV as a bolus injection over 5 mins
Stocking recommendations
Not stocked in Queensland, accessible via The Children’s Hospital Westmead. Contact Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 if supply needed.
Disclaimer
Fact sheet developed by Queensland Poisons Information Centre.
This fact sheet is about the use of these antidotes in Australia, and may not apply to other countries. Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of information, omissions of information, or any actions that may be taken as a consequence of reading this fact sheet.
Last updated: July 2023