Drug Class
Antineoplastic Agent/Monoclonal Antibody
Mechanism of Action
The monoclonal antibody is directed against an antigen (the CD20 antigen) on B lymphocytes which results in cell killing. The antigen target regulates the initiation of the cell cycle. It is approved for the treatment of B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Dosage Regimens
| Condition | Information | Intravenous Dosage |
Systemic vasculitis, lupus nephritis |
|
Lupus Nephritis: 1 g Q2wk for 2 doses for lupus nephritis. |
Contraindications
Do not take this medication if you have had hypersensitive or anaphylactic reactions to rituximab or mouse-derived proteins.
Common Side Effects
- Cardiac arrythmias
- Infections
- Kidney toxicity
- Sudden drop in blood pressure (hypotension)
- Vasculitis
- Vomiting
- Fever
Drug Interactions
| Drug Name | Interaction |
Vaccines: |
Increased risk of infection by vaccine derived from live viruses. |
Patient Instructions
- You should not use this medication if you are allergic to rituximab or other mouse-derived proteins.
- Do not use this medication if you are breast feeding.
- A nurse or other trained health professional will administer this medicine. This medicine is injected through a vein into the body and must be given slowly, so the needle will remain in place for a few hours.
- If you miss a dose of this medication, contact your doctor for instructions.
Notify your doctor or nurse immediately if you experience any of the following side effects while being administered rituximab: fever, chills, sensation of tongue or throat swelling, flushing, sensation of fainting while sitting still or standing.
