CLL Rituximab - first Rituxan Hycela Shot went well!

[ChrisLovesLife]

Since I was the first woman to have the shot at OHSU yesterday that replaced my routine Rituxan infusion, I thought I would share. I had pre-treatment fear for the first time after watching the administration video, concerns about more severe reactions and after 50 IV's in the last 3 years somehow a 7 minute shot in the stomach really freaked me out due to the lack of patient experience for this new treatment and lack of information available, so I thought I would put this out there!

It was quite uneventful actually! The Rituxan is mixed with Hycela which is a viscous (gel) material that forces the shot to be administered at a slow speed of 7 minutes for CLL patients. This is important due to the Hycela being a material that eats a fat pocket to make room for the medication deposit, allowing it to disburse slowly until your next treatment. The nurse lays a pillow on your lap and leans on it because the administration is rigorous, pinched about an inch of lower belly fat, said ready, and I did not feel the stab. She held extremely steady and after a bit I started feeling a very light crunch/crackle feel inside near the syringe, nothing painful just strange. After about 5 minutes I noticed the slightest uncomfortable feeling from having a needle in so long but I watched the rest empty and she uneventfully pulled it out, no pain. A band aid and 15 minutes of observation later, sent on my way instead of a 6 hour infusion. I can't recommend it enough if your insurance covers it. I had to have a minimum of one infusion prior without reaction to qualify for the shot.

Today as informed, I have a large red ring starting to form around the shot zone, a very slight tenderness, quadriceps are weak and some fatigue. A good experience all together!! Blessings and infection free Spring to all of you!

[Panz]

Thanks for sharing...that is how we are able to help each other. I am not at all familiar with this treatment.

🙏💕☘️😍

[ChrisLovesLife in reply to Panz]

My pleasure!

[cllady01 Former Volunteer]

Good description and takes some of the "I don't wanna try that feeling" away.

[ChrisLovesLife in reply to cllady01]

Glad to help! Thank you.

[attarintiki]

Thanks for sharing this new technique and its very informative

[Jm954 Administrator]

Thanks for sharing and all the detail which is really helpful to members.

All the best

Jackie

[ChrisLovesLife in reply to Jm954]

All my best to you as well Jackie!

[klees]

Thanks for sharing. I agree, having the details helps alleviate the fear of not knowing.

Happy Spring!

Kim

[Justasheet1]

Chris,

Great description of events. I let my wife read it. She is a nurse and gives Rituxan infusions.

Jeff

[ChrisLovesLife in reply to Justasheet1]

Thank you, she's going to have strong forearms!