Rituxan
(Rituximab)
Provider Summary
Primary Uses
Immune-mediated and oncologic indications depending on diagnosis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis) per label and payer criteria.
Mechanism of action
Anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody → B-cell depletion.
Pre-treatment / baseline requirements
Hepatitis B screening is standard; baseline CBC and CMP/LFTs; screen for active infection; consider baseline immunoglobulins; premedication for infusion reactions per PI/order.
Common side effects
Infusion reactions, fever/chills, nausea, rash, fatigue.
Serious adverse effects / key risks
Boxed warnings include severe/fatal infusion reactions, severe mucocutaneous reactions, HBV reactivation, and PML.
Referral requirements
Standard infusion referral form + drug-specific checklist
Patient & Caregiver Education
What it treats
Immune-mediated and oncologic indications depending on diagnosis
How it works
Targets CD20 on B-cells to reduce harmful immune activity.
Before treatment
Tell your clinician if you have an active infection/fever, are pregnant/planning pregnancy, or have major heart/nerve problems. Depending on the medication, you may need labs or screening tests (e.g., TB/hepatitis) and a vaccine review.
Common side effects
Infusion reactions, fever/chills, nausea, rash, fatigue.
Get urgent help for
Boxed warnings include severe/fatal infusion reactions, severe mucocutaneous reactions, HBV reactivation, and PML.
On treatment day
Plan to stay for monitoring. If you feel dizzy, drowsy, or unwell afterward, do not drive and follow your clinician’s instructions.