03 Jul Rituximab
Rituximab
What is Rituximab ?
Rituximab is the name given to classify a group of monoclonal antibody treatments that are used to treat certain autoimmune diseases and types of cancer. Biosimilar medications that fall under this category include Truxima, Rituxan, and Ruxience.
Rituximabs are used 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.
How does Rituximab work?
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.
In some cases, immune cells called ‘B cells‘ can become pathologically overactive or contribute to disease progression, such as with certain types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis.
In non-Hodgkin lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia, rituximabs work by binding to CD20 on B cells. This binding triggers the immune system to destroy these B cells, which can help to reduce the size of tumors and slow disease progression.
In autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and certain vasculitides, rituximab helps by reducing the number of autoantibody-producing B cells and modulating the immune response that leads to inflammation and tissue damage.
What does Rituximab treat?
- Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA)
- Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA)
- Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV)
Side Effects
- Infusion- related reaction
- Headache
- Increased risk of infection
- Nasopharyngitis
- Upper respiratory tract infection
Click here for additional side effects
Infusion Duration
3-4 hours
Infusion Cycle
As prescribed by physician
Rituximab Cost
Rituximab 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!
What to Expect During Your Infusion
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.
- Your dedicated Infusion nurse will check your vitals and review your medical history to check for improvements or potential side effects of your infusion therapy.
- Your nurse will begin your infusion and check in on you periodically during your treatment.
- After your infusion, your nurse will monitor you to ensure you do not have any complications or reactions to the infusion therapy.
Why patients choose Pure to receive their Rituximab infusion:
Safe & Private Suites
- Comfortable, private rooms with a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere
- 55” TVs with Netflix, Wifi, drinks, snacks, meals & more
Expert Medical Staff
- Certified FNPs & infusion nurses on-site
- Insurance pre-authorizations & re-authorizations
- Patient lab work
Patient Assistance
- Co-Pay assistance & other financial aid programs
- Flexible scheduling
- Easy & convenient parking
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