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Rituximab

Medication Information Leaflet

What is this medication for?

This medication is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, some types of cancer, and skin conditions.
It is usually used when other common medications cannot be used or did not work well enough.
For the treatment of skin conditions, you may start to see an improvement in your condition 2-16 weeks after treatment and the effects of this medication generally last up to 6-9 months.
For the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, you may start to see an improvement in your condition 6 weeks after treatment, the effects of this medication generally last up to 9 months.

How should I take or use this medication?

This medication is given through a drip into a vein using needle as an infusion, in a healthcare facility. Each infusion usually takes several hours.
For some types of cancer, rituximab may be given as a injection into the fat layer under the skin.
Your doctor will decide the dose of medication for you and how often you should receive it.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Avoid going to crowded places with many people as this medication may reduce your body’s ability to fight against infection.
Inform your healthcare professional if:

You are allergic to this medication or any of the ingredients of this medication.
You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Effective birth control should be used during and for at least 12 months after treatment.
Breastfeeding should be avoided during and for at least 6 months after treatment.

You have a condition or are receiving treatment that affects your immune system including: cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
You have any active infections, especially tuberculosis (TB) or hepatitis, or have recently been near anyone who might have TB.
You have other conditions such as heart failure or nervous system disorders.
You are going for a vaccination or a surgery, including dental surgery.
You are taking or intend to take any other medications, supplements, traditional medications, or herbal remedies, including those that are over-the-counter.

What are some common side effects of this medication?

During the vein infusion, you may experience infusion reactions (fever with chills, drop in blood pressure, skin itch, mild throat tightening, skin rash).

You may be given medications such as paracetamol, antihistamines and/or steroids before the infusion to prevent or reduce these side effects.
Inform the nurse immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Your infusion may be slowed down or stopped if the side effects are severe.

Other common side effects include nausea, tiredness, body aches.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

Consult your doctor if you notice any of the following side effect(s) during or after the infusion:

Side effect(s)	Warning signs
Allergic reaction	Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue Difficulty in breathing Itchy skin rashes over your whole body
Signs of infection	Fever Chills Persistent cough Persistent sore throat Pain or burning sensation on urination
Severe skin reaction	Painful mouth and lip sores or ulcers Severe skin rash with painful blistering or peeling of the skin
Hepatitis B reactivation	Yellow skin or eyes Dark or tea-coloured urine Persistent abdominal pain
Symptoms of stomach/ intestinal problems	Severe abdominal pain Repeated vomiting
Symptoms of nervous system disorders	Dizziness Arm/ leg weakness and unsteadiness Numbness or tingling sensation Problems with vision and speech Memory loss Mood and behaviour changes, confusion
Symptoms of heart problems	Abnormal heart rate Chest pain Swollen legs or arms, shortness of breath, large weight gain
Symptoms of low blood counts	Bruising or bleeding very easily Fever Looking pale

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

Avoid eating raw or undercooked food e.g., soft cheeses, soft-boiled eggs as this medication may reduce your body’s ability to fight against infection.

Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking or intend to take any other medications, supplements, traditional medications, or herbal remedies, including those that are over-the-counter.

Disclaimer

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on Oct 2022

This article was last reviewed on Tuesday, October 18, 2022