Rituximab - Patient Education & Practice Resources
Brand Names
RituxanOther Names
ImmunosuppressantsMonoclonal Antibodies
What is Rituximab? How Does it Work
Rituximab is a type of intravenous medication called a monoclonal antibody. It is given as an intravenous infusion (through a drip into a vein). It works by sticking to and killing B-cells, a type of white blood cell that produces antibodies and activates the immune system. Rituximab starts acting within a few days and its effect lasts for several months. It is important to tell your doctor how you are feeling during your treatment.What is this drug used for?
Rituximab is used to treat certain types of cancer and many ‘autoimmune conditions’, where the immune system is overactive and attacks healthy body tissue.Why have I been selected for treatment with rituximab?
Treatment with rituximab is considered for people whose disease is severe and active, and standard treatments have either not worked, cannot be used or have caused serious side-effects.Do I need a prescription for infliximab?
Yes.How is this drug best taken?
Rituximab given through a drip into a vein (intravenous infusion) over a period of time. Medications might be given before the infusion to reduce the occurrence of infusion-related symptoms. A nurse will closely monitor your vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, etc) and will gradually increase the rate of the infusion. The first infusion takes approximately six hours, but following infusions will usually take less time. A dose of intravenous steroid will usually be given just before the rituximab infusion to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. You will be monitored by nursing staff during the infusion.Depending on your medical condition, you may receive:
- two infusions given two weeks apart
- or, four infusions given every week for four weeks
Are there any precautions about food or other medicines?
Check with the doctor, nurse practitioner, or pharmacist before giving any other prescription or non-prescription medicines, herbs, or vitamins. Talk to your doctor before letting your child get any live vaccines or flu shots.What are the side effects?
Rituximab may cause infusion reactions and decrease your ability to fight infection and increase the risk that you will get a serious infection.- Mild infusion reactions. These usually occur early during the infusion, but can occur up to 24 hours afterwards. Symptoms include headache, changes in blood pressure, nausea, rash, fever, itch, runny or blocked nose, sneezing, rapid heart rate and tiredness. These symptoms will usually resolve if the infusion is paused or slowed down, and if medications like paracetamol or anti-histamines are given.
- Colds, chest and urinary tract infections
- A decrease in antibody levels. This is mainly seen in people who receive multiple infusions over many years. It is detected by blood tests. Some people with low antibody levels are more vulnerable to chest and sinus infections, but not everybody. It can be treated if causing recurrent infections.
- diarrhea
- constipation
- back or joint pain
- flushing
- night sweats
- feeling unusually anxious or worried
- hair loss
What do I do if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor to find out what to do next.When should I call the clinic?
- chest pain
- irregular heartbeat
- swelling in face, lips, or throat
- trouble swallowing
- signs of infection:
-This includes minor infections
- cough, cold, sore throat
- fever or chills - signs of allergic reaction:
- flushing
- dizziness
- fainting
- rash or hives
- wheezing
- trouble breathing - call 911
Tips to reduce your risk of infection
- Try to avoid close contact with people you know have an infection.
- Wash your hands regularly and carry around a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel.
- Keep your mouth clean by brushing your teeth regularly.
- Stop smoking if you’re a smoker.
- Make sure your food is stored and prepared properly.
- Try to keep your house clean and hygienic, especially the kitchen, bathrooms and toilets.