Rituximab: how to take it safely
MabThera, Rituxan
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats some blood cancers (such as lymphoma) and some immune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
How to take it
It is given by slow drip into a vein by a doctor or nurse. You are given medicines first to lower the chance of a reaction.
When to take it
Given every few weeks or months, as your specialist plans.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Tell your team if you have or have had hepatitis B, TB or an infection. Treatment can reactivate them.
- Pregnancy and fathering a child during treatment. Use reliable contraception and ask your team how long to continue it.
- Live vaccines unless your cancer team says so.
- Contact with people who have infections such as chickenpox or flu.
- Alcohol, unless your team says it is safe.
Possible side effects
Fever, chills, itching, flushing, headache and low blood pressure during the drip, tiredness, infections.
Get help if
Trouble breathing, a rash, swelling of the face, chest pain or a drop in blood pressure during the drip: tell the staff straight away. Yellow skin or eyes, confusion, trouble speaking or severe infection signs afterwards: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.