Ritulasta 500 Injection

Introduction

Ritulasta is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient Rituximab. Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody that is used to treat certain types of cancer and autoimmune diseases.

Uses

Ritulasta is 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.
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia: It is used in combination with other medications to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: It is used in combination with methotrexate to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis.
• Granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis: It is used to treat adults with these rare autoimmune diseases.

Dosage and Administration

Ritulasta is administered by a healthcare professional through an intravenous infusion. The dosage and frequency of the medication will depend on the specific condition being treated and the individual patient’s response. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Mechanism of Action

Rituximab, the active ingredient in Ritulasta, works by targeting and binding to specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells or immune cells. This binding helps to destroy the targeted cells and reduce inflammation in autoimmune diseases.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include infusion reactions (such as fever, chills, and rash), nausea, fatigue, and infections. Serious side effects, although rare, may include severe infections, heart problems, lung problems, and skin reactions. If you experience any of these side effects or have any concerns, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Drug Interactions

Ritulasta may interact with other medications. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Some medications, such as vaccines and live vaccines, may not be recommended while using Ritulasta. Your healthcare provider will have the most up-to-date information on potential drug interactions.

Precautions

Before using Ritulasta. Discuss any medical conditions or allergies you have with your healthcare provider. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of infections, heart problems, or lung problems. Ritulasta should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly needed. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Storage

Patient Tips

• Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider for the proper administration of Ritulasta.
• Report any side effects or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Keep all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and follow-up.
• Store Ritulasta properly in the refrigerator and protect it from light.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

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: