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About RITUXAN

Important Safety Information

The RITUXAN Infusion Experience

RITUXAN® is a monoclonal antibody that is given by infusion—that is, through a needle placed in a vein. RITUXAN specifically targets a marker (called CD20) on the B-cells in which most non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) starts.

The first infusion

The first infusion of RITUXAN is given slowly. That’s because it is common to have symptoms during infusions, especially the first infusion. So the first time it may take 4 to 6 hours or more. If reactions occur, they are usually manageable. To manage reactions, the infusion is slowed or stopped. After your first treatment, you may experience fewer reactions. That means your treatments may take less time. But you will be monitored the same way as the first time. Keep in mind that everyone is different, and some treatments may be shorter or longer.

Important Safety Information:

  • RITUXAN can cause serious side effects that can lead to death, including: infusion reactions, tumor lysis syndrome (TLS; kidney failure due to fast breakdown of cancer cells), severe skin and mouth reactions, and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML; a rare, serious brain infection).
  • RITUXAN has also been associated with serious and life-threatening side effects, including: the return of active hepatitis B virus infection with sudden and serious liver problems including liver failure, and death, other serious infections that can lead to death, heart problems, kidney problems, and stomach and serious bowel problems including blockage and tears in the bowel that can sometimes lead to death.
  • The most common side effects of RITUXAN seen in patients with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma were infusion reactions, fever, chills, low white blood cells, infections, body aches, and tiredness. Before starting treatment with RITUXAN it is important to talk to your doctor about your medical history.
  • Tell your doctor about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all of the possible side effects with RITUXAN. For more information, ask your doctor

To get more information on why and how reactions happen, visit the Understanding RITUXAN Infusion Reactions page. Go now

This information does not take the place of talking with your doctor. Discuss with your doctor any questions you have about your medical condition or your treatment.

Indications and Important Safety Information

RITUXAN® (Rituximab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with:

  • Relapsed or refractory, low-grade or follicular, CD20-positive, B-cell NHL as a single agent
  • Previously untreated follicular, CD20-positive, B-cell NHL in combination with CVP chemotherapy
  • Non-progressing (including stable disease), low-grade, CD20-positive, B-cell NHL, as a single agent, after first-line CVP chemotherapy
  • Previously untreated diffuse large B-cell, CD20-positive NHL in combination with CHOP or other anthracycline-based chemotherapy regimens

People with serious infections should not receive RITUXAN.

Important Safety Information:

  • RITUXAN can cause serious side effects that can lead to death, including: infusion reactions, tumor lysis syndrome (TLS; kidney failure due to fast breakdown of cancer cells), severe skin and mouth reactions, and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML; a rare, serious brain infection).
  • Infusion Reactions
    Serious infusion reactions can happen during your infusion or within 24 hours of receiving RITUXAN. Your doctor should give you medicines before your infusion of RITUXAN to decrease your chance of having a severe infusion reaction. If a serious reaction occurs, the infusion may be stopped and you should receive medical care. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you get any of these symptoms: hives or rash, itching, swelling of your lips, tongue, throat, or face, sudden cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing or wheezing, weakness, dizziness or feel faint, palpitations, or chest pain.
  • Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS)
    TLS is caused by the fast breakdown of cancer cells and can occur after treatment with RITUXAN. TLS can cause you to have kidney failure and the need for dialysis treatment. TLS may also cause abnormal heart rhythm. Your doctor may give you medicines to help prevent TLS and do blood tests to check you for TLS.
  • Severe Skin and Mouth Reactions
    Severe skin and mouth reactions can occur in patients who receive RITUXAN.
  • Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML)
    PML is a rare, serious brain infection caused by a virus. People with a weakened immune system can get PML. Tell your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms: confusion or problems thinking, loss of balance, change in the way you walk or talk, decreased strength or weakness on one side of your body, blurred vision or loss of vision.
  • RITUXAN has also been associated with serious and life-threatening side effects, including: the return of active hepatitis B virus infection with sudden and serious liver problems including liver failure, and death, other serious infections that can lead to death, heart problems, kidney problems, and stomach and serious bowel problems including blockage and tears in the bowel that can sometimes lead to death.
  • The most common side effects of RITUXAN in patients with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) include: infusion reactions, fever, chills, low white blood cells, infections, body aches, and tiredness. The most common serious side effect in NHL patients was low white blood cells.
  • Tell your doctor about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all of the possible side effects with RITUXAN. For more information, ask your doctor.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide.