Rituximab - first rituxan infusion?

Hi I had 4 infusions late last year. My suggestion is to have a toasted bagel and some gingerale so it is easier for you in the morning. Don't worry, it will go away eventually. I wish you the best. Please be very patient and calm. You are doing this to get well. Your children will keep you busy and your mind off anything. Rest when you can. My best wishes and prayers.

I've been taking Rituxan for four years now. I get a dose followed by a second dose two weeks later. I repeat this series about every six months. It's not a terrible thing. Do you have a port or will they need to start a IV? I get mine with an IV that they put in my hand. They will probably give you some other medicine that will prevent reactions. They take your blood pressure before, during, and after the infusion to make sure that all is well. With my first infusion, I had a mild allergic reaction (itchy throat and sneezing) that stopped as soon as the infusion is over. I usually feel sort of sick for about 24-36 hours after the infusion. My face is flushed and I'm not hungry. Sort of nauseated, but more just full and blah feeling.

Advice: Drink plenty of fluids in the morning before your infusion. Plan to be at the infusion center all day. Bring a snack. If possible, recruit help with the kids for the evening and the next day. At the very least, have dinner ready for the kids before you go in. You probably won't feel like cooking when you get home.

Good luck!

(I'm 40 years old and have one kid. I take Rituxan for Myasthenia Gravis. I'm female.)