Information about Rituximab

Generic Name : Rituximab
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Rituximab are provided here.

Pronunciation : ri-TUX-i-mab

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Rituximab, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y43.4 Therapeutic Classification : Monoclonal antibodies

Trade Names/Brand Names of Rituximab

India :

Reditux (500 mg) | Mathera (500 mg) | Mabthera | Reditux (100 mg)

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International :

Rituxan

Why is Rituximab Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a monoclol antibody, prescribed for certain types of cancer such as lymphomas, leukemia, transplant rejection and some autoimmune disorders. It decreases the number of certain types of white blood cells (B cells) in the body.

When should Rituximab not be taken? (Contraindications)

Hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Rituximab?

Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL) - The recommended dose is 375 mg/m² as an IV infusion at weekly intervals for a total of four doses.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)- 375 mg/m² the day prior to the initiation of FC chemotherapy, then 500 mg/m² on Day 1 of cycles 2-6 (every 28 days).
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)- The recommended dose is two-1000 mg intravenous infusions separated by 2 weeks.

How should Rituximab be taken?

It comes as a solution for injection to be administered by a healthcare provider into the vein.

What are the warnings and precautions for Rituximab?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of kidney, liver, lung, or blood problems, heart problems, bowel problems, electrolyte problems, high blood pressure, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

• Avoid contact with people who have infections.

• Patients with hepatitis B infection may develop with an increased risk of liver impairment. If you experience with symptoms like dark urine, pale colored stools, severe stomach pain, or yellowing of the eyes or skin consult with your doctor immediately.

What are the side effects of Rituximab?

Body as a Whole - Fever, chills, infection, weakness, headache, abdominal pain, back pain, throat irritation and flushing.
Blood and Lymphatic - Anemia, decrease in white blood cells and platelets.
Skin - Night sweats, rash, itching and hives.
Respiratory - Increased cough, runny nose, asthma, difficulty in breathing and sinus inflammation.
Metabolic - Increased blood sugar, swelling in the extremities and increased LDH.
Gastrointestinal - Nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.
Central Nervous System - Dizziness and anxiety.
Musculoskeletal - Joint/muscle pain.
Heart - Low/high blood pressure.