Ruxience, also known as rituximab, is a drug that is used in the treatment of certain types of cancer and autoimmune diseases. This drug is a monoclonal antibody, which means it targets specific cells in the body.
Ruxience is approved for use in the treatment of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), which are types of vasculitis.
Antibodies are an integral part of the body’s immune system. Normally, the body creates antibodies in response to an antigen, such as a protein in a germ, that has entered the body. The antibodies attach to the antigen in order to mark it for destruction by the immune system.
When given to the patient, these monoclonal antibodies will attach to matching antigens like a key fits a lock. Since monoclonal antibodies target only specific cells, they may cause less toxicity to healthy cells.
Ruxience works by targeting the CD20 antigen on normal cells and B-cells, then the body’s natural immune defenses are recruited to attack and kill the marked B-cells.
In NHL and CLL, B-cells can become cancerous and multiply uncontrollably. By destroying these cancerous B-cells, Ruxience can help to slow or stop the progression of the disease.
In RA and vasculitis, B-cells play a role in the autoimmune response that causes inflammation and tissue damage. By targeting and destroying these B-cells, Ruxience can help to reduce inflammation and slow the progression of these diseases.
Stem cells (young cells in the bone marrow that will develop into the various types of cells) do not have the CD20 antigen. This allows healthy B-cells to regenerate after treatment.
1-2 hours
As prescribed by a physician
Ruxience cost can vary depending on several factors including insurance status and insurance provider. At Pure Infusion Suites, we are committed to lowering costs and improving access for our patients. Our team of patient access coordinators are here to set you up for success.
We work with a growing list of insurance providers, and are always working to ensure claims/authorizations are processed efficiently. All patients are enrolled in co-pay assistance programs to assist in covering costs of treatment.
Additionally, data from an Artemetrx report shows average costs at an outpatient hospital facility are more than 3X higher than costs at an ambulatory infusion center. That means we save our patients’ money, while offering a more comfortable experience!
Before your infusion, it is important to drink plenty of water and come to your appointment hydrated. Additionally, you must alert us as soon as possible to any changes in your insurance to ensure that we are still an in-network provider for your infusion therapy.