RITUXIMAB

Antilymphocyte monoclonal antibody anticancer

Dosage Forms

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Concentrate for IV infusion

10 mg/ml

Uses

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  • Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
  • Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
  • Severe rheumatoid arthritis (second-line therapy)
  • Granulomatosis
  • Microscopic polyangitis

Dose and Duration

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Usually 375 mg/m² by IV infusion per cycle; frequency depends on the type and severity of cancer

Refer to product literature for recommended doses

Contra-indications

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  • Hypersensitivity to rituximab
  • Severe infections
  • Severe immunocompromised state
  • Severe heart failure

Side Effects

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  • Myelosuppression
  • Infections
  • Infusion-related reactions; angioedema
  • Hypersensitivity
  • Hyperglycaemia, weight loss, oedema
  • Paraesthesia, agitation, insomnia, dizziness
  • Lacrimation disorder, conjunctivitis, tinnitus, ear pain
  • Cardiac disorders, myocardial infarction, arrhythmias
  • Hypertension, hypotension
  • Bronchospasm, respiratory distress, cough, rhinitis
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain
  • Urticaria, sweating, night sweats
  • Muscle, joint, back and neck pain
  • Malaise, weakness, shivering, fatigue, chills, headache
  • Decreased IgG levels

Patient Instructions

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  • Use effective contraception during and for 12 months after treatment

Pregnancy

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  • Do not use

Breast-feeding

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  • Discontinue breastfeeding during and for 12 months after treatment

Storage

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  • Store in a refrigerator at 2−8°C. Protect from light

⚠️ Caution

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  • Pre-medication with glucocorticoid, anti-pyretic and anti-histamine is necessary before administering rituximab
  • Adequate hydration before treatment is necessary
  • Anticancer medicines should only be handled by health workers trained and experienced in cytotoxic medicines