Chemo Drugs
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Rituxan (Rituximab)
What Does It Look Like?
Clear liquid
How Is It Given?
Intravenous (vein)
Why Am I Taking It?
Rituxan is a kind of an anti-cancer drug called a monoclonal antibody that stops cells from dividing. This drug is used to treat a specific type of non-hodgkin's lymphoma.
What Side Effects May Occur?
You may experience some, all, or none of those listed. Most side effects do not last long. Tell the doctor or nurse about any that you notice. The information here does not include all possible side effects; others may occur. Please report any problems to your doctor.
Infusion Related
The following hypersensitivity symptoms may occur while the drug is being given. Your nurses will monitor you carefully while you are getting Rituxan. You may be given benadryl and/or tylenol to help reduce or eliminate these symptoms. Usually a slowing of the infusion rate eliminates the symptoms.
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Fever and chills
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Nausea or vomiting
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Skin rash or itching
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Headache
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Shortness of breath or wheezing
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Runny nose
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Drop in blood pressure
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Pain at the site of your cancer
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Sensation of tongue swelling
Low Blood Cell Counts
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May cause a drop in blood cell counts. Blood tests will be done to monitor your blood cell counts.
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Call your doctor if you notice any signs of infection or bleeding. Avoid situations where you might be exposed to people with infections.
Other
These side effects may go away on their own as your body becomes used to the Rituxan. Let your doctor or nurse know if any of them are causing you problems or do not go away on their own.
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Stomach pain or back pain
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Diarrhea
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Change in your taste buds
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Dry eyes
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Loss of appetite or heartburn
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Pain in your joints or muscles
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Numbness or tingling in your hands and feet
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Feeling depressed or trouble sleeping
Special Notes
Changes in your menstrual cycle or sperm count may occur. Discuss birth control measures with your doctor as it is not advisable to conceive or to father children while taking this drug.