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How Does a Methotrexate Abortion Work?

Nov 17, 2024 | Abortion Pill

Woman wondering "How does a methotrexate abortion work?"

How Does a Methotrexate Abortion Work?

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you’ve likely already googled countless ways to terminate it privately. You may have discovered the drug Methotrexate and want to reach out to an abortion provider to discuss it.

We get it—unplanned pregnancy can be scary. But, it’s important to get all the facts so you can make a fully informed decision. In today’s blog, we’re exploring everything you need to know about Methotrexate abortion.

What is Methotrexate Used For?

Methotrexate is a drug that prevents the replication or growth of living cells. It can be used to treat several different conditions, including1:

  • Certain cancers
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Severe psoriasis
  • Ectopic pregnancy2, 3

The manufacturer’s label states that it should not be used in pregnancy, however, abortion providers also prescribe methotrexate in combination with misoprostol for the early termination of pregnancies up to seven weeks from a woman’s last menstrual period. However, the FDA has not officially approved the drug for abortion, making it off-label for this use.4

How Does a Methotrexate Abortion Work?

Methotrexate works by slowing the growth of cells.5, 6 In a Methotrexate abortion, the drug is administered to stop the pregnancy cells from growing. Misoprostol is taken afterward to expel the fetus from the uterus.7, 8

Can Methotrexate Alone Cause Abortion?

Studies have found that taking methotrexate alone in early pregnancy increases the chance of abortion occurring, however, it is typically used along with misoprostol to increase the effectiveness.9, 10

What are the Side Effects of a Methotrexate Abortion?

Possible side effects of a Methotrexate plus misoprostol abortion include11:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Mouth sores
  • Dizziness
  • Birth abnormalities (if the abortion fails and the pregnancy is carried to term)
  • Heavy bleeding
  • Abdominal pain

The Methotrexate may also cause severe complications including hair loss, bone marrow suppression, and and organ impairment.12

What Do I Need to Know Before a Methotrexate Abortion?

Before a Methotrexate abortion, you should know the following:

  • How far along you are. The most accurate way to determine gestational age is via an ultrasound.
  • Your medical history. Methotrexate may be especially risky in women with certain medical conditions, including a history of kidney disease, liver problems, and significant alcohol use.13, 14, 15
  • Whether you’re willing to undergo surgery if the Methotrexate abortion is not successful.
  • That you have access to emergency care if you experience severe side effects.

Get the Facts on Methotrexate Abortion at Pregnancy Decision Line

We understand how stressful an unplanned pregnancy can be. Pregnancy Decision Line is a safe place to ask questions, get the facts, and find support. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your health and future!

REFERENCES
  1. U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2017, April 15). Methotrexate. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682019.html# 
  2. Ectopic Pregnancy. Mayo Clinic. (2022, May 12). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372093 
  3. Iowa Health Care. (2020, June 11). Methotrexate for ectopic pregnancy. https://uihc.org/educational-resources/methotrexate-ectopic-pregnancy 
  4. West-Ward, Pharmaceuticals Corporation, & FDA. (2020, August). Methotrexate Label. FDA. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/040054s015,s016,s017.pdf
  5. Methotrexate. Cleveland Clinic. (2024). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20143-methotrexate  
  6. Methotrexate. U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2023, March). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK582834/ 
  7. Creinin MD. Medical abortion with methotrexate 75 mg intramuscularly and vaginal misoprostol. Contraception. 1997 Dec;56(6):367-71. doi: 10.1016/s0010-7824(97)00173-x. PMID: 9494770. 
  8. Food & Drug Administration. (n.d.). Cytotec® misoprostol tablets. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/019268s041lbl.pdf 
  9. Özeren, M., Bilekli, C., & Aydemir, V. (1999, September 20). Methotrexate and Misoprostol used alone or in combination for early abortion. ScienceDirect. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0010782499000475 
  10. Schaff, E. A., Penmetsa, U., Eisinger, S. H., & Franks, P. (1997, January). Methotrexate. A single agent for early abortion. The Journal of Reproductive Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9018647/ 
  11. See source #3.
  12. See source #3. 
  13. See source #3.
  14. See source #4.
  15. Veterans Administration. (2020, February). Methotrexate Contraindications and Risk Factors for Serious Adverse Events in Inflammatory Disorders. https://www.pbm.va.gov/PBM/clinicalguidance/clinicalrecommendations/MethotrexateContraindicationsandRiskFactorsforSeriousAdverseEventsinInflammatoryDisorders508.pdf

Call 866-406-9327 and get help now.

All of our services are 100% free and confidential. We exist to provide accurate medical information and support to women and men facing an unplanned pregnancy. Our pregnancy centers do not offer or refer for pregnancy terminations or birth control. Information is provided as an educational service and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.

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