Rituximab
Generic Details
Generic Name
Rituximab
Other Names
- Rituxan
- MabThera
Drug Class
- Monoclonal antibody
Chemical Formula
C6412H9912N1694O1987S42
Molecular Weight
145781.3 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Rituximab targets the CD20 antigen on B-lymphocytes, leading to cell lysis and depletion of B-cells.
Indications
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Granulomatosis with polyangiitis
- Microscopic polyangiitis
Common Dosage Forms
- Injection
- Infusion
Typical Dosage
- Adult dose: 375 mg/m² intravenously weekly for 4 doses
Pediatric Dosage
- Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established
Geriatric Dosage
- Dose adjustments may be required based on individual patient factors
Side Effects
- Infusion reactions
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Headache
- Infections
- Hypotension
- Hepatitis B reactivation
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to rituximab
- Severe active infections
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available; caution advised
Drug Interactions
- Live or live-attenuated vaccines
- Immunosuppressants
Overdose Symptoms
- Increased risk of infections
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote; manage symptoms and provide supportive care
Storage Conditions
- Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F); do not freeze
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Not applicable (administered via intravenous infusion)
- Distribution: Widely distributed in the body, especially in the blood
- Metabolism: Metabolized into inactive metabolites
- Excretion: Eliminated mainly via the reticuloendothelial system
Precautions
- Hepatitis B screening before treatment
- Monitor for signs of infection during therapy
Warnings
- Serious infusion reactions can occur; premedication may be needed
- Risk of developing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)
Others
- Regular monitoring of B-cell counts and CD20 levels during therapy is recommended