Let's learn about Rituximab (Rituximab Injection)

Has your doctor prescribed you or someone in your family to start taking the drug Rituximab? It's normal to feel a little scared and curious when you hear the name of such a powerful drug. "What will happen with this?", "What should I be concerned about?", etc. You probably have a lot of questions in your mind. That's why, today, we will talk very simply and friendly about this drug Rituximab, what it does, and what things to be concerned about when taking it.

Simply put, what is Rituximab?

Rituximab is a very special medicine that belongs to a class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies. Think of it as a protein specially made in a laboratory to help our body's defense system (immune system). Its main function is to recognize and attack and destroy some abnormal cells in our body, especially cancer cells. It also helps control some diseases caused by the malfunctioning of the immune system.

There are several conditions for which this medicine is mainly used.

Things you need to tell your doctor before starting treatment

This is very important. For your safety, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions before starting treatment.

• Chest pain or heart disease: If you have heart disease or have had chest pain before.
• Infections: Any current infections, especially viral infections like chickenpox, herpes, and hepatitis B.
• Immune system weaknesses: If you have any problems with your immune system.
• Irregular heartbeat: If the heartbeat is irregular.
• Kidney disease: If you have any kidney related condition.
• Low blood cell count: If there are reports of low white blood cells, platelets, or red blood cells in the blood.
• Lung disease: If you have any lung disease.
• Getting vaccinated: If you have recently received a vaccine or are planning to receive one in the future.
• Allergies: If you have an allergy to Rituximab, any other medicine, food, or dye.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How is this medicine administered to the body?

This medicine is not something you can use at home. It is given by a doctor or a trained nurse in a hospital or clinic as an infusion into a vein. This process can take several hours.

Even for children, this medicine is given in some special cases (for example, children over 6 months of age). But it is done with great care and only on the advice of a specialist doctor.

What if I take too much medicine?

This is given in a hospital setting, so the chances of this happening are very low. However, if you suspect that you have overdosed, immediately report it to the hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU). Alternatively, you can call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

Things to be especially careful about while taking the medicine

• Protection from infections: This medicine may slightly reduce your immunity, so you are more likely to get sick and develop infections. Therefore, if you experience symptoms such as fever, cold, or sore throat, do not self-medicate and tell your doctor. Avoid going to crowded places and socializing with sick people as much as possible.
• Skin changes: Sometimes, even weeks after starting the medication, serious skin reactions can occur. If you develop red or purple blisters, sores, peeling skin, or a fever, tell your doctor right away.
• Infusion reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions when the medicine is given intravenously. To reduce this, your doctor may give you other medicines (e.g., Panadol, Pyridoxine) before the injection. If you feel any discomfort during the injection, tell the nurse or doctor immediately.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: This is very important. You should avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medicine and for 12 months after stopping treatment . Talk to your doctor about using birth control. Also, avoid breastfeeding for 6 months after stopping treatment .
• Possible effects on the brain: Very rarely, some patients may develop a serious infection that affects the brain due to this medicine. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any changes or problems with your vision, thinking, speaking, walking, or standing .

Side effects of the medicine

Like any medicine, Rituximab can cause side effects. However, not everyone gets them. Let's take a closer look at them in the table below.

Other medications that may interact with Rituximab (Interactions)

It is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies). Things that may interact with Rituximab in particular include:

• Live vaccines: You should avoid receiving live vaccines while taking this medication.
• Cisplatin: Rituximab may interact with Cisplatin, another cancer drug.

This list is not complete, so please inform your doctor about everything you are taking.

Rituximab, cancer drug, monoclonal antibody, non-hodgkin lymphoma, rheumatoid arthritis, side effects