Thursday, May 31, 2012

pumpkin45
Monday, June 16, 2008 pumpkin45 asks

Q: Has anyone found relief with Rituxan and how long after second infusion should I start feeling bette

I've tried all the meds out there.  I was diagnosed with Rheum about 15 years ago.  My body hurts all the time now and I'm now on Coumadin due to a blood clot.  I've been doing 20 mg of prednison every day with no relief.  Doc prescribed vicodin which doesn't really help.  I can't seem to get my fingers under control.  I am also taking Cymbalta 90 mg per day to try to help with depression and pain.  Doc will up it to 120 mg soon. 

 

I'm having a tough time coping with this disease lately - I don't know why it's been so bad lately.  I don't want to feel sorry for myself but I'm having a tough time with pain constantly.  I pray each night that the Rituxan kicks in and makes me feel better.  I'm going on two weeks after second infusion and I'm told it takes 4-6 weeks.  Anyone else experiencing this?

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Answers (2)
Casey McNulty
Casey McNulty, Health Guide
6/17/08 6:19pm

Hi,

Thank you for your question. Published data has shown that Rituxan (generic name rituximab) takes an average of 50 days to have an effect. It's my understanding that the infusions are two weeks apart, so if you've just had your second infusion, you may still have several weeks to go before you notice a difference. You can read more about Rituxan here.

Best of luck,

Casey

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Donnster
Donnster
11/27/10 9:09pm

Hi all--I have now had 4 infusions of Rituxan, each a week apart.  I finished my fourth 5 days ago.  The reason for my infusions is very low platelets.  So far I've seen no results, platelets keep dropping.  The Dr. told me it could be weeks before we see any results.  Keep the faith.

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Donnster
Donnster
12/ 4/10 9:37am

Hi, I'm the one that had 4 infusions of Rituxan.  I had good news this week.  After 2 weeks after last infusion, had blood draw yesteday.  Platelets are way up.  It appears that the Rituxan is working.  I don't feel any different but it's working anyway.  Dr said it could be months.

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jane
jane
8/ 7/08 3:51pm

I am feeling pretty much the same as you.  It has been two weeks since my second rituxan infusion and I feel so much worse since trying rituxan.  My doctor keeps having to up my medrol. But, I keep hearing to wait another two weeks.  They say that we should start feeling better 6 weeks after the first infusion if it's going to work.  So, hang in there and let's hope we both feel better. I noticed that you posted quite awhile ago....I'm behind the times.  Did you get any relief from it?

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By pumpkin45— Last Modified: 12/04/10, First Published: 06/16/08