Alkalinization of urine during chemotherapy – MCQ

Alkalinization of urine is done during administration of which of the following chemotherapeutic drugs?
A. Ara-C (Cytarabine)
B. Methotrexate
C. Cisplatin
D. Ifosfamide

Correct answer : B. Methotrexate

  • Alkalinization of urine is used in patients receiving high dose methotrexate to promote renal excretion and to avoid nephrotoxicity
  • IV Sodium bicarbonate is used to maintain urine pH above 7.0 to avoid precipitation of methotrexate (a weak acid) in the acid pH of renal tubules