Downloadable resources are available to help with the administration of Rituxan
Infusion Information and Storage
Rituxan (rituximab) is administered by intravenous (IV) infusion at a dose of 375 mg/m2 (based on body surface area) once weekly for 4 weeks for the treatment of patients with Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis and Microscopic Polyangiitis.
- Rituxan vials [100 mg (NDC 50242-051-21) and 500 mg (NDC 50242-053-06)] are stable at 2°C–8°C (36°F–46°F)
- Protect vials of concentrate from direct sunlight
- Do not freeze or shake
- Do not use beyond expiration date stamped on carton
- Before administration, dilute Rituxan concentrate with normal saline or D5W to a final concentration of 1 to 4 mg/mL
- Solutions for infusions should be stored at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) for 24 hours
INDICATION
Rituxan (rituximab), in combination with glucocorticoids, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) and Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA).
Rituxan is not recommended for treatment of patients with severe active infections.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
BOXED WARNINGS
Rituxan administration can result in serious, including fatal, adverse reactions. These include:
- infusion reactions
- tumor lysis syndrome (TLS)
- severe mucocutaneous reactions
- progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)
Warnings and Precautions
Rituxan administration can also result in additional serious, including fatal, adverse reactions including:
- hepatitis B reactivation
- other infections including bacterial, fungal, new or reactivated viral infections
- cardiovascular events
Use of concomitant immunosuppressants other than corticosteroids has not been studied in GPA or MPA patients exhibiting peripheral B-cell depletion following treatment with Rituxan.
Observe patients closely for signs of infection if immunosuppressants other than corticosteroids are used concomitantly.
Common adverse reactions include infections, nausea, diarrhea, headache, muscle spasms, anemia and peripheral edema.