First Rituximab

[MarieLowe]

Steve has first Rituximab on Fri in Cambs, will he be poorly at all afterwards or ok to return to work on the Monday? Does it put any strain on the heart on the drip for 8 hours?

thank u

[Kenneth]

Obviously, everyone is different. I had a 2 year course of rituximab. I had no ill effects at all. To be honest, I could not tell the difference. I went back to work the next day. I drove home afterwards from Addenbrooks. The main consolation is that in the 16 years since I was diagnosed with Wegeners, I have never felt so well. (my final infusion was last December). I saw Dr. Jayne on Friday 3rd August, & my next appointment is in 6 months time. It's normally every month or three months.

[Hidden]

Kenneth has rightly pointed out that patients can react differently but as someone who's had about a dozen infusions over almost 4 years I've never experienced anything more than fatigue for day or so afterwards.

Just ensure the drug is infused as per the protocol (i.e. the rate of infusion is increased during the administration (it's to check for possible adverser reactions). I presume you'll be having a 2nd dose in 2-4 weeks then a dose every six months for two years as per the Addenbrooke's protocol. I'm now als0 on an annual dose as maintenance

Let s know how it goes but don't expect any immediate benefits as it can take up to 6-8 weeks in my experience.

Healthy wishes.

[nannie]

Hi Marie, I had my first dose in June and went on holiday, having the second dose the day after we got back. It was the best holiday I've had in years because I felt so well. I expected to feel poorly but felt fine. I wouldn't plan anything too energetic for a few days just in case. Could Steve warn them at work that he might need a few days off, but I really hope he is one of the lucky ones and that it is a miracle for him. Good luck !

[PoppyS]

I went back to work after first dose of Rituximab and have gone back to work following all infusions which were normally on the Friday and went back on the Monday. Had bad headaches after the first course but these are sorted now. Had 3rd lot in May and feel better each time.

[ken13]

I had my infusion on the tuesday felt a wee bit weak on the wednesday, thursday a lot better, and back at work on the friday.

[MarieLowe]

Thank you for all your replies. It all sounds good to me and I ve reassured Steve. He has had Churgs for 5 yrs now.