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Rituxan

Posted , 4 users are following.

rosalind86239
rosalind86239

Hi RA friends, well here I go again , the last infusion of Actema caused rashes and boils so my Reumy is starting me on Rituxan 5 hour infusion! My body rejected Orencia , Remacaid, Xelzand , methotrexate, enbral .  It's been over six years , no deformity yet but pain level intense everyday .  Of course I'm on predsidone while I wait for insurance, hens bloating and mood swings sigh. So my question is has anyone had positive results of Rituxan?  Thank you in advance

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • rosalind86239
    rosalind86239

    Posted

    Hi again is anyone using Rituxan I really need to make a decision so worried about side effects.  Thanks
    • Gloria814
      Gloria814 rosalind86239

      Posted

      Hi

       Sorry no one on this forum seems to have any info on it.  I only suggest you put the name of the drug in your search engine and follow that by the word reviews and several sites come up for you to check.  It's a mixed bag as with any drugs--if someone had a serious side effect or found great relief.   Many gave it favorable reviews.  I wish you the best--these are such hard decisions to make when we know what can happen.    I am on Cimzia after debating if I wanted the risk of side effects but decided I will try it and so far I am tolerating it

  • Rowbirdie
    Rowbirdie rosalind86239

    Posted

    Hi Rosalind

    yes I am on rituximab and it's been great for me. I am still on methotrexate with it but know it can be used on its own. It works in a different way to anti tnf drugs like orencia and enbrel as it targets B cells . Don't ask me what they are- but they re a different part of the cell that causes auto immune response. 

    I prefer having the the infusion in the hospital as they monitor the whole time if you are getting any localised allergic reaction.and alter the rate accordingly. There is a anti histamine and steroid premed to reduce this possibility too. Very few longer term side effects. I certainly have none. It takes a little longer to work , maybe 2 months, but lasts for a minimum of 6 months maybe longer. I am on my 4 th round and it looks like it will last 9 months or so this time. 

    So so don't be put off by long infusion time- take a book and snacks! Take a small blanket or shawl as the anti histamine can make you feel sleepy/ cold. They monitor you regularly during infusion. It s really worth seeing if this might be the one that helps you. That pred is just awful- needs must of course, but I have not had tablets for a year now which is great. All the best

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