About rituximab
CD20-targeted monoclonal antibody
Used for
- Certain non-Hodgkin lymphomas and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
- Rheumatoid arthritis with other treatment
- Granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis
- Pemphigus vulgaris
Usual adult dose
Dose depends on condition and treatment plan. Common regimens use 375 mg/m² weekly for four doses for lymphoma, or 1,000 mg twice, two weeks apart for rheumatoid arthritis.
Usual dose in children
For selected childhood cancers, commonly 375 mg/m² per infusion; specialist protocols determine the schedule.
Common side effects
- Infusion reactions, including fever, chills, rash, or breathing difficulty
- Infections
- Low blood cell counts
- Nausea or fatigue
Important warnings
- Infusion reactions can be severe or life-threatening, especially with the first infusion.
- Can cause serious infections, including reactivation of hepatitis B; screening is required.
- Rare progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy can cause severe brain damage or death.
- Live vaccines are generally avoided during treatment.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby. Pregnancy prevention during treatment and for 12 months after the last dose is generally recommended.
Breastfeeding
Avoid breastfeeding during treatment and for 6 months after the last dose, according to product information.
Interactions
- Other immune-suppressing medicines may increase infection risk.
- Live vaccines may be less effective or cause infection.
- Tell the treatment team about recent or planned vaccinations.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.