Rituximab
Rx
Generic NameRituximab
Therapeutic ClassMonoclonal antibody (anti-CD20)
Common Strength100 mg/10 mL, 500 mg/50 mL infusion vial
PregnancyUse only if clearly needed
Indications ▼
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Treatment of CD20-positive B-cell NHL.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Used in combination with chemotherapy for CD20-positive CLL.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: In combination with methotrexate for moderate-to-severe RA.
Vasculitis: Granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis, in combination with glucocorticoids.
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Chimeric monoclonal antibody binds CD20 on B-cells, inducing cell lysis via complement-dependent cytotoxicity, antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, and apoptosis.
Pharmacokinetics: IV administration; half-life 19–22 days after multiple infusions; primarily eliminated via reticuloendothelial system; minimal renal excretion.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Patient Category | Recommended Dose | Max / 24h |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (NHL) | 375 mg/m² IV once weekly for 4 weeks | — |
| Adults (CLL) | 375 mg/m² IV on day 1; then 500 mg/m² IV on day 1 of subsequent cycles | — |
| Adults (RA) | 1000 mg IV on day 1 and day 15; repeat every 24 weeks | — |
Note: Premedicate with acetaminophen and antihistamine; infuse slowly and monitor for infusion reactions. Adjust dose in severe infusion-related reactions.
Side Effects ▼
Infusion-related reactions: fever, chills, hypotension
Infections: respiratory, urinary tract infections
Hematologic: neutropenia, thrombocytopenia
Rare: progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), cardiac events
Contraindications ▼
Hypersensitivity to rituximab or murine proteins
Active severe infections
Pregnancy: use only if clearly needed
Drug Interaction ▼
Cytotoxic chemotherapy: increased risk of infection
Vaccines: avoid live vaccines during treatment
Other immunosuppressants: additive immunosuppression
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Use only if clearly needed
Avoid during breastfeeding
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Clinical Role: Targets CD20+ B-cells for hematologic malignancies and autoimmune disorders.
Advantage: Effective in combination therapies; long half-life allows spaced dosing.
Limitation: Risk of severe infusion reactions, infections, and rare PML.
Monitoring: CBC, infusion reactions, signs of infection.
Patient Counseling Points ▼
Premedicate and report any infusion reactions immediately
Monitor for signs of infection
Do not receive live vaccines during treatment
Follow-up labs as recommended
Storage & Handling ▼
Store at 2–8°C; do not freeze
Protect from light
Keep out of reach of children
Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼
Medical Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.
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