Lippincott Maternal Health Practice Exam

In cases of an ectopic pregnancy where the fallopian tube has not ruptured, methotrexate is a commonly prescribed medication. Methotrexate works as a folic acid antagonist that inhibits DNA synthesis and cellular replication, effectively stopping the growth of trophoblastic tissue that is present in an ectopic pregnancy. This allows for the disintegration of the ectopic tissue without the need for surgical intervention, provided that the condition is diagnosed early.

The use of methotrexate is particularly advantageous since it is a less invasive option compared to surgery and can help preserve the woman’s reproductive capacity. It is most effective when the ectopic pregnancy is identified early, and when the hCG levels are within a certain range, ensuring there is no imminent rupture of the tube.

Other medications mentioned, such as progestin contraceptives and medroxyprogesterone, are not appropriate for managing an ectopic pregnancy; they are used for other reproductive health issues but do not address the abnormal implantation of the pregnancy. Dyphylline is a bronchodilator used to treat asthma and is not relevant to the treatment of ectopic pregnancies. Therefore, methotrexate is the appropriate choice in this scenario.