How it works:
Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody targeting the CD20 antigen on B-cells, leading to their destruction. It is used in conditions where B-cell activity is dysregulated or malignant.
Recommended for:
Patients with non-Hodgkin’s B-cell lymphoma
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Rheumatoid arthritis (with methotrexate)
ANCA-associated vasculitis (as part of combination therapy)
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Rheumatoid arthritis (in combination with methotrexate)
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis, microscopic polyangiitis
Administered only intravenously under hospital conditions. Dosage is individualised based on body weight and disease severity. Premedication is recommended before infusion.
Contraindications:
Hypersensitivity to rituximab
Active severe infections
Severe immunosuppression
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Children (unless prescribed by a specialist)
Side effects:
Fever, chills, headache
Allergic reactions including anaphylaxis
Respiratory and urinary tract infections
Cytopenias (leukopenia, thrombocytopenia)
Arrhythmia, hypotension
