Rituximab

[Pickzie]

I have been advised to have Rituximab infusions to help get symptoms better controlled in addition to my usual lupus meds - methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine. I am nervous about this treatment and wondered what experience others may have had with Rituximab

[Suzym2u Moderator Vasculitis UK]

Many in the group have experience of Rituximab and I am sure they will share their experiences. I do believe it is very successful for most of those who have been given RTX but not for everyone. This page on the ARUK website might help explain things a little. arthritisresearchuk.org/art...

best wishes

Susan

[Pickzie in reply to Suzym2u]

Fantastic- thanks for the link

[amms43]

After a ten infusion spell of Cyclophosphamide which was not successful, I had my first infusions of Rituximab at the beginning of the year. The infusions were much easier on me, I did not feel ill after them as I did with Cyclophosphamide. From about six weeks after the first Rituximab infusion I have felt progressively better with great reduction in symptoms. So far my experience of this drug has been entirely favourable.

I am very fortunate in having a consultant in whom I have great faith so I follow his advice - he knows a lot more than I do!

[Pickzie in reply to amms43]

Thanks so much for replying- it's encouraging to hear of your positive experience and I'm glad you are having benefit from the treatment. Like you, I have great faith in my consultant's advice but with the 1st infusion date rapidly approaching I confess to feeling somewhat apprensive. Hopefully like you I won't feel lousy after the treatment and will feel the benefits in a few weeks time 😊

[Hidden]

Pickzie

This could be the start of regaining your life back on track. Stay positive and please let us know how you got on.

Good luck and wishing you well.

[Pickzie]

Thanks - your encouragent is so much appreciated. I'll let you know how I get on 😊

[Pickzie]

First Rituximab infusion this week - hoping for good results and thanks for the encouragement

[Pickzie]

Hello to everyone who let me know about their experience of Rituximab and gave me encouragement. Has the second infusion a week ago and really don't kno why is got myself so anxious about the treatment. Had a really good experience in the Rheumatlogy day unit for both infusions. Hoping I'll see the benefits in a few weeks but feeling very positive. Thanks guys