I had my Rituximab about 3 months ago as I got MCD. I would like to know from people experiences how long does it takes to feel the benefits

[JAQUEKB]

Rituximab & results

[Bet117 NKF Ambassador]

Hi JAQUEKB,

Warmest thoughts are with you on this journey.

I also have an autoimmune kidney disorder, haven't been given Rituximab, but my close friend who has MCD and was treated with the drug, has.

Honestly, I would speak to your nephrologist regarding when he/ she plans to assess you via labs next and if they plan to give you additional infusions of the drug. My friend had 3 planned infusions which were spread over several months and regular labs in between to measure toxicity levels, a CBC, electrolytes and kidney function with indications of levels of protein spilling.

Your doctor will know if the drug is working and what the next step is; be it a few weeks or a month.

In the meantime, drink your water, eat healthily and watch sodium, amounts of protein ( avoid red meats) phosphorous ( dairy) and potassium. This doesn't mean eliminate; modify.

Remember that every person is different and their body will react differently to a drug; what may work asap for one, may not another.

Speak to your nephrologist and let me know how you are doing.

This is all a process but with God's will, it will get you to remission.

Bet

[madonbrew]

Hi, I have Rituximab for an autoimmune disease that’s affected my pancreas and kidneys. My consultant generally measures my count of IgG4 as a marker (that’s my autoimmune problem) We usually see an improvement within 3-6 months. My kidney function has stayed fairly stable since Ritux...eGFR between 38-33 for a couple of years so it seems to help my body stop attacking itself!

Be really careful though, because you won’t have much immune system for 6-12 months I think, so just be particularly careful in the current situation! 😊

[Norfickgal]

I guess the 2 sessions of Rituximab is doing it's stuff to keep my immune system in check. Although I have felt worse since my last vasculitis flare up and my urine flow has nearly dried up which has now put me on fluid restriction. Have been told I'll need Ritux every 6months for next 4 years. Hope to be on kidney trans list soon .

[tjb737]

I did 4 rounds of Rituximab for an autoimmune disease that’s affected my kidneys. That was back in October. Today I did a maintenance infusion. Infusion takes 4 to 5 hours. I will say that it takes 2 to 3 months for full effect. It’s so gradual that you probably won’t really notice, but at some point you’ll likely realize that you do feel more like your old self. I was blessed that it worked so well that I went from a Stage 4 to a high 2, maybe a 1. Still have a bit of anemia, but I’m grateful to have had no real side effects and feel better than I have in a year.

[madonbrew in reply to tjb737]

Wow, that’s really amazing that it took you from stage 4 to 2/1!! Really glad it helped you so much!