Emtux Solution for Infusion

Introduction

Emtux is a medication that contains the active ingredient Rituximab. It is available under the brand name Emtux. Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody that is used to treat certain types of cancer and autoimmune diseases.

Uses

Emtux is primarily prescribed for the following conditions:

• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma: It is used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs to treat certain types of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, including follicular lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL): It is used in combination with other medications to treat CLL in patients who have not responded well to other treatments.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Emtux is also used to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis in patients who have not responded adequately to other disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Emtux may vary depending on the condition being treated and other individual factors. It is usually administered by a healthcare professional through an intravenous infusion. The infusion is typically given once a week for several weeks, followed by maintenance infusions every few months. The exact dosage and treatment schedule should be determined by your healthcare provider.

Mechanism of Action

Rituximab, the active ingredient in Emtux, works by targeting and binding to a specific protein called CD20 on the surface of B-cells. This binding leads to the destruction of these B-cells, which play a role in cancer and autoimmune diseases. By reducing the number of these cells, Rituximab helps to control the progression of the disease and alleviate symptoms.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Infusion reactions: These may include fever, chills, nausea, headache, and rash. These reactions are usually mild to moderate and can be managed by slowing down the infusion or using medications to reduce symptoms.
• Infections: Emtux can increase the risk of infections, including respiratory tract infections and urinary tract infections.
• Low blood cell counts: It may cause a decrease in certain blood cell counts, such as white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.

Serious side effects may include:

• Severe infections: In rare cases, Emtux may lead to severe infections, including pneumonia and sepsis.
• Infusion-related reactions: Some patients may experience severe allergic reactions during or after the infusion, which may require immediate medical attention.
• Tumor lysis syndrome: This is a rare but serious condition that can occur when cancer cells are rapidly destroyed, leading to the release of toxic substances into the bloodstream.

If you experience any side effects while using Emtux, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Drug Interactions

Emtux may interact with certain medications, including:

• Live vaccines: avoid live vaccines while receiving Emtux, as it may interfere with the effectiveness of the vaccine.
• Other immunosuppressive medications: Combining Emtux with other immunosuppressive medications may increase the risk of infections.

Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements, before starting treatment with Emtux.

Precautions

Before using Emtux, discuss the following precautions with your healthcare provider:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to Rituximab or any other medications.
• Infections: Emtux can increase the risk of infections. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of recurrent infections or if you are currently experiencing any signs of infection.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Emtux during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Pre-existing medical conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions, including heart disease, lung disease, and hepatitis B or C.

Storage

Emtux should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F). Do not freeze the medication. Keep it in the original packaging and protect it from light. Follow any additional storage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Patient Tips

• Follow the dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dosage or treatment schedule without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Attend all scheduled appointments for infusions and follow-up visits as advised by your healthcare provider.
• Be aware of the signs and symptoms of infection, such as fever, cough, and sore throat, and report them to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements.
• If you experience any side effects or have any concerns while using Emtux, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for guidance and support.

Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.

References

• Laryngeal (larynx) cancer – Treatment (NHS UK) [Accessed 1 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• MabThera 100 mg Concentrate for Solution for Infusion (Health Professionals SmPC) Available at:
• Rituximab (Drugs.com) [Accessed 13 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• rituximab 1,400 mg/11.7 ml (120 mg/ml)-hyaluronidase subcutaneous soln (RX) [Accessed 4 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Rituximab Injection (MedlinePlus) [Accessed 23 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Mankikian J, Caille A, Reynaud-Gaubert M, Agier MS, Bermudez J, Bonniaud P, Borie R, Brillet PY, Cadranel J, Court-Fortune I, Crestani B, Debray MP, Gomez E, Gondouin A, Hirschi-Santelmo S, Israel-Biet D, Jouneau S, Juvin K, Leger J, Kerjouan M, Marquette CH, Naccache JM, Nunes H, Plantier L, Prevot G, Quetant S, Traclet J, Valentin V, Uzunhan Y, Wémeau-Stervinou L, Bejan-Angoulvant T, Cottin V, Marchand-Adam S; EVER-ILD investigators and the OrphaLung network. Rituximab and mycophenolate mofetil combination in patients with interstitial lung disease (EVER-ILD): a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial. Eur Respir J. 2023 Jun 8;61(6):2202071. doi: 10.1183/13993003.02071-2022. Print 2023 Jun. [Accessed 3 Jun. 2024] Available at: