"I've learned to bring enough activities to keep me busy during my infusions, like magazines and crossword puzzles. -Monica, taking Rituxan since 2006

Hear more of Monica's story

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Rituxan can result in serious side effects, some of which could be life threatening. These include:

  • infusion reactions
  • tumor lysis syndrome (TLS)
  • severe skin and mouth reactions
  • progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)

Other serious, potentially life-threatening side effects are:

  • hepatitis B infection that may become active again
  • serious infections
  • heart problems
  • low blood cell counts

Common side effects include infections and infusion reactions. Before treatment with Rituxan, patients should tell their doctor if they have an infection, including one that will not go away or that keeps coming back. If patients experience any symptoms or side effects during or after Rituxan treatment, they should seek immediate medical attention. These are not all of the possible side effects with Rituxan. Tell your doctor about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Please read the Rituxan full Prescribing Information, including the Medication Guide. If you have any questions about this information, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.

WHAT IS RITUXAN?

Rituxan® (rituximab) is a prescription medicine used in adults with another prescription medicine called methotrexate, to reduce the signs and symptoms of moderate to severe active RA, after at least one other medicine called a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor has been used and did not work well enough.

Tips for infusions

As you continue to take Rituxan® (rituximab) infusions, keep the following tips in mind. They can help make the process go smoothly.

  • Set aside enough time—future infusions may take slightly less time, but they will still last several hours. So make sure you set aside enough time in your day
  • Bring activities—you may want to take activities such as crossword puzzles or a book to read to help you pass the time
  • Eating and drinking—you may be at the infusion facility for a better part of the day. So consider taking some snacks or packing a meal. Just be sure to check with the facility first that bringing food is OK
  • Additional medications—as always, remember to let your doctor or nurse know about any medications or supplements you're taking
  • Stay mindful of how you feel—even if you didn't experience reactions in the past, they may still occur with future infusions. Most reactions are mild and manageable, but some may be serious. It's important to tell your health care provider right away about any discomfort during or after treatment
  • Review the Medication Guide—before each infusion, remember to review the Medication Guide and ask your doctor any questions you may have