Rituxan (Injection)
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Possibly help Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis ?
I saw this advertised on Fox News. It mentioned M. S. and that it might help. However it didn't say what time. Is Primary Proogressive type M.S. one that could be considered? Are there any studies or programs going on that I could be a part of? I ...
by Marianne in Cape Coral,Florida, 08/28/2006
Rituxan (Injection) Drug and Prescription Information
Rituxan (Injection)
Rituxan (Injection) Medication Classification
RITUXIMAB (Injection)
Rituxan (Injection) Brandname
Rituxan
Rituxan (Injection) is used for the Treatment
Rituximab (ri-TUK-si-mab) Treats non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
When To Not Use Rituxan (Injection)
You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to rituximab or other murine proteins.
How Should You Use Rituxan (Injection)
Injectable
- Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
- You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It may also be given by a home health caregiver.
- Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
- Rituximab must be given slowly, so the needle will remain in place a few hours. You may also receive medicines to help prevent possible allergic reactions to the injection.
- You will be watched closely for unwanted side effects while you are receiving this medicine. If a dose is missed:
- Call your doctor for instructions. Drugs and Foods to Avoid: Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medic
Proper Rituxan (Injection) Storage
Store Rituxan (Injection) at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture unless otherwise stated by manufacturer's instructions or labelling. Keep Rituxan (Injection) and all medications out of the reach of children.
What To Avoid While Using Rituxan (Injection)
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using blood pressure medicine (such as Accupril®, Altace®, Cardura®, Hytrin®, Lotensin®, Lotrel®, Monopril®, Prinivil®, Vasotec®, Zestril®, atenolol, metoprolol, Toprol®).
- While you are receiving this medicine, do not receive a flu shot or other vaccine without asking your doctor.
Rituxan (Injection) Warnings
- This medicine can harm an unborn baby if it the mother receives treatment while she is pregnant or if the father is receiving treatment when his sexual partner becomes pregnant. If a pregnancy occurs while you are using this medicine, tell your doctor right away.
- Use two forms of birth control to avoid pregnancy while you are using this medicine and for at least 12 months after your treatment ends. This is very important whether you are a man or a woman.
- Do not breastfeed while you are receiving this medicine.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you have kidney disease, heart disease, or heart rhythm problems.
- Tell your doctor if you have ever had a reaction to murine proteins. Murine proteins are used in some medicines for hemophilia, organ or bone marrow transplants, serious blood infections, or to find or treat certain cancers.
- Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
Rituxan (Injection) Side Effects
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
- Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
- Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
- Chest pain
- Decrease in how much or how often you urinate
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Fever, chills, cough, sore throat
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Night sweats
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
