Rituximab
(Generic Name) Other names: Rituxan
About this drug
Rituximab is a special type of antibody used to treat cancer. This drug is given intravenously (IV).
Possible side effects
- Serious allergic reaction may occur during the time you are receiving this drug by IV. Tell your doctor or nurse immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:
- difficulty catching your breath
- feeling like your tongue or throat is swelling
- feeling your heart beat rapidly (palpitations)
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- Less serious reaction to this drug may occur. Tell your doctor or nurse immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:
- fever, chills, or shaking chills
- hives, itchy skin, or rash
- flushing
- headache
- runny nose
- nausea or vomiting
- new pain
- For a few months after receiving this drug, bone marrow depression may occur. This is a decrease in the number of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. This may increase your risk of infection, fatigue, and bleeding.
- This drug may have harmful effects on the unborn child, so effective methods of birth control should be used during your cancer treatment. Genetic counseling is available to you to discuss the effect of this drug therapy on future pregnancies. In addition, a genetic counselor can review the potential risks of problems in the fetus due to this medication if an exposure during pregnancy has occurred.
Food and drug interactions
There are no known interactions of rituximab and any food. This drug may interact with other medications. Tell your doctor and pharmacist all the medications that you are currently taking.
When to call the doctor
Call your doctor or nurse immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:
- temperature of 100.5 F (38 C) or above
- chills
- difficulty catching your breath
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- uncontrolled nausea that prevents you from eating or drinking
- vomiting more than 3 times in one day
- chest pain
- rapid or irregular heartbeat
- dizziness