Any thoughts on Rituximab

[Pop007]

Hi

My husband who has MCTD for 20 years ( recently diagnosed with discoid lupus) has been offered rituximab. At the time it was offered , he had been recovering from acute liver failure ( hospital says cause unknown), this had limited the choice of medication he was offered.

Last week we were told that his liver levels had returned to near normal and the consultant stated he was happy for him to have any rheumatology drug( so long as he is monitored).

So the question is... do we wait until they ‘recruit ‘ a specialist nurse to administer this drug - is it worth the wait? Or try and get something else?

He’s previously tried many things , ...methotrexate and mycophenolate...etc

He’s presently only on steroids and not a happy bunny ( he’s in great pain).

Pop

[Penguintaz]

Hi Pop,

I was on Mycothinolate at first but it did not really help subdue my symptoms. I was moved to methotrexate which was okay for a year but my Rheumy was still unhappy with my blood work. I was then put on rituximab. I had my first two injections this January.

The first time I had it I just slept the whole day, I was so tired! Second time I slept a bit but was already feeling better. It is now late March, my bloods and symptoms are basically normal!

I can't gaurentee that your husband would react the same but for me it has been wonderful, I am hopeful it will continue to work for me

[Pop007 in reply to Penguintaz]

Sounds good! Hopefully it will do the trick with hubby too!

[mickey_in_cincy]

I have systemic lupus and had to give up methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine due to eye pain and vertigo. Now I am only on 20mg of prednisone and feel great.