Rituximab

Generic Name : Rituximab

TradeName : Rituxan

Overview : Rituximab used in transplantation as an induction therapy before transplantation.

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : Rituximab lowers the number of white blood cells (B cells) in the body. It is a monoclonal antibody which is used in treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It also used to decrease pain, swelling, and inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications) : Avoid taking rituximab If you are allergic to any ingredient in Rituximab or to mouse or rat protein If you have rheumatoid arthritis and you have not previously used other medication. If you have hepatitis B viral infection

Missed a Dose? :
Incase of missed dose contact your physician immediately.

How it should be taken : • Rituximab is usually given as IV injection at hospital or medical centre. • Avoid using rituximab if it contains particles, cloudy or discolored, or if the vial is cracked or damaged. • Rituximab is usually given once a week for 4 to 8 weeks in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Special Instruction :
• Rituximab can cause dizziness which may be worse if you take it with alcohol or other medicines. . • Rituximab reduces immunity so avoid contact with people who have colds or infections. • The risk of developing certain viral infections may be increases while you use Rituximab and for up to 1 year after you stop using it. Certain viral infections may be very severe or fatal • Serious liver problems may arise in hepatitis B infected patients . Consult your doctor right away if you develop signs of liver problems, including dark urine, pale stools, severe stomach pain, or yellowing of the eyes or skin. • Do not take a live vaccine while you are taking Rituximab . • Rituximab may reduce the platelets count in blood. • Inform your doctor or dentist that you take Rituximab before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery. • Do lab tests, including kidney and liver function, complete blood cell counts, and blood electrolytes at definite intervals.

Side Effects :
Some patients receiving a rituximab injection complained of a reaction to the infusion Inform your doctor right away if you feel dizzy, weak, nauseated, light-headed, itchy, or if you have a fever, chills, muscle pain, sneezing, sore throat, trouble breathing, or pain in your chest or shoulders. Infusion reactions may occur within the first 24 hours after the start of your rituximab infusion. • Incase of emergency get medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Drug Interactions :
Drugs found be interact with Rituximab were • cisplatin • adalimumab • azathioprine • cyclosporine • etanercept • infliximab • leflunomide • minocycline • sulfasalazine • antihypertensive medications; • medications such as chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine .

Storage Conditions :
Rituximab vials are stable at 36° to 46°F. Protect vials from sunlight. Rituximab solutions for infusion can be stored at 36° to 46°F for 24 h and are stable at room temperature for an additional 24 h