Pronounced: (rye-TUX-ih-mab)
Rituxan IV Uses
Table of Contents
- >>Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
Rituximab is used alone or with other medications to treat certain types of cancer (e.g., non-Hodgkin's lymphoma). It is a type of medication called a monoclonal antibody. It works by attaching to certain blood cells from your immune system (B cells) and killing them. It is also used with other monoclonal antibodies and radioactive drugs to treat certain cancers.
Rituximab is also used with methotrexate to treat moderate-to-severe forms of rheumatoid arthritis. It is usually used for arthritis only after other medications have not worked. It can decrease joint pain and swelling.
How To Use Rituxan IV
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using rituximab and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication will be given by a health care professional. It is mixed in a solution and given slowly over several hours by vein (IV) as directed by your doctor. The dose and how often you receive the medication depends on your condition, other treatments, and response to therapy. If you are being treated for cancer, you will receive one or more doses, usually once a week. If you are being treated for arthritis, you will usually receive 2 doses, usually 2 weeks apart.
Your doctor may prescribe other medications (e.g., acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, methylprednisolone) for you to take 30 minutes before the start of your treatment to help prevent serious side effects. Your dose will be started slowly, and the rate will be increased if you are tolerating the medication well.
Ask your doctor if you should take your regular medications (e.g., drugs for high blood pressure) before your treatment.
Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with correct IV fluids. Follow all safety precautions. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about the use of this medication.
Do not shake the IV liquid. After adding the drug to the IV fluid, gently turn the bag upside down and over to mix the drug into the liquid. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.
