I have had a infusion of a new drug(RITUXIMAB)has anyone had this drug?if so did it make a difference?also any bad side effects?

[popshaw21]

[ltespain]

Not at home at moment but brief answer to confirm I have had 4 cycles of Rituximab infusions (a cycle being 2 doses 2 weeks apart). They have been my life saver and I havent had an bad side effects other than nausea the first couple if cycles for a few days.

Mine was due arthritis from Sjogrens and other issues. Am now working and all results showing me fit as well as needing lower INR target these days to keep my APS under control.

Hope it works for you.

[Salty]

Ltespain, did you have any neurological symptoms that were not completely controlled with warfarin that were improved by the rituximab?

[ltespain in reply to Salty]

Hi Salty I did indeed and right now I would tell you that for the past 12 months they have been 'quiet' and barely given me a problem. Main issues for me have been peripheral neuropathy, issues with muscles and also burning sensations on the skin. With a few other bits and pieces.

[Salty in reply to ltespain]

Thanks for sharing your great response! I'm very happy for you

[MrsBL]

I am due to begin treatment of Rituximab soon, please let us know how you feel.

[Zaney3622]

I also had rituxan. I had several rounds of it over 3 years, and the last time I had it in 2010 the doctor added cytoxin for an additional 3 mths. I had very few side effects- some hair loss, fatigue. I have been in remission since 2010. Good luck.

[Salty]

Zaney, glad you are in remission? Can you describe what,exactly you were given the rituximab for? Were you/are you on anticoagulation? Where are you being treated/followed? Why did they add the cytoxan? Thanks for any details you can provide

[Salty]

MRsBL, can you tell us what you are getting rituximab for also? Thanks for any details you can provide.

[Holley]

Back in 2006 my hematologist at the time decided to try me on Rituximab to target antibodies in preparation for heart surgery. I did 3 out of 4 rounds. I had a severe reaction to my first infusion. My blood pressure dropped to 80/50. I vomited and voided from the other end at the same time. The nurse described it as a colonergenic reaction (2 exits no waiting as my husband put it). I passed out. They stopped the infusion, found me some clothes to wear and told me to come back the next day to finish the dose. They used a smaller needle so it was a very slow drip. I had no problems afterwards. They saw no change in my antibodies and decided not to do the last round. They pointed out that I had a rare reaction. Also, my call button for the nurse did not work. I tried to buzz the nurse for help when I first felt bad.