Rituximab User Reviews & Ratings (Page 2)

• rlhat...
• December 4, 2010

Rituxan (rituximab) for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma "Just finished my sixth round of chemo treatment. I had Follicular B-cell Lymphoma. One on my right shoulder, one on my neck, and two on my chest. After the fourth round and a PET scan, the doctor diagnosed me as being in 100% remission. I will do more research on the Rituxan maintenance program recommended by my oncologist. I had a reaction to the Rituxan during my first treatment, but did not have any other problems with the medicine. Highly recommended."

• Sonny
• May 11, 2020

Rituxan (rituximab) for Rheumatoid Arthritis "I have rheumatoid arthritis for the last 26 years, tried numerous drugs for it: methotrexate, hydrochloride, gold injections, Enbrel, but had really bad side effects. Then, the consultant put me on Rituximab 10 years ago. I feel much better, have less joint pain. I get itchy skin, especially after a shower, have to take an antihistamine tablet sometimes, headaches, but I cope with all that. It’s worth it. I am thankful for that drug, it really does help."

• Dorko
• January 25, 2019

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "I'm not sure what to think of this drug. I had to stop working in Nov 2018 as the disease (which was in my hands and feet) had attacked my left hip and then knee, leaving me unable to walk. This is my eighth drug in four years as NOTHING has worked at all, and the side effects were a horror show. So far I have used hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, methotrexate, Arava, Inflectra, Xeljanz, Kevzara. After my first infusion with rituximab on Dec 12, I had three days of pure bliss. I was in remission...or so I thought. I was pain-free for the first time in 4 years. The evening of the third day, the pain in my left hip started back and got worse daily. After waiting 4 weeks for the second infusion, I had three hours of relief on the second day after treatment. Since then it has been straight downhill with the pain going back into my knee. I know that Rituxan can take a while to work, but I am declining daily...and losing hope."

• Bundy...
• September 10, 2016

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "This is my second infusion, and I am feeling quite nauseous and headachy, but I know this will pass. Had an extremely bad headache last night, but the relief from the pain has been incredible. Have been on Enbrel, Cimzia, sulfasalazine, Plaquenil, Arava. I am still on prednisone and methotrexate, as well as Celebrex, but the relief I have had since having my first infusion is like a dream come true. I had results within the first few days, so there is hope out there... I can walk a lot easier, can actually use my hands, which was just so painful... My life is back... Don't give up."

• Jamie...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 10, 2020

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "Have only had 2 lots of rituximab, my first infusion was fine, but the second one, 2 weeks later, has left me not being able to sleep. I go to bed, and my body is tired, and I want to rest, but as soon as I lay down, within 10 mins, I have to get back up. It feels like my whole body is restless and jittery. This goes on for hours. I have tried reading but can't concentrate, have gotten back up for hot drinks, then gone back to bed, same thing. I have had baths at 4 in the morning as that seems to help, but not all the time. Just wondering if this had happened to anyone else and how they coped, as I'm at the end of my tether and want to sleep."

• Anonymous
• July 18, 2012

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "I had my first infusion almost 6 weeks ago and the 2nd 15 days later. I had no problems at all during the infusions, which was painless. The day after the infusion, I woke up with the feeling that my hands were burning and tingling badly, that lasted most of the day. After the 2nd infusion, I woke up on and off during the night with my eye burning. I think my mobility has improved a bit, but I hope it improves more over the next couple of weeks. For the last few days, I have had pain in my neck and jaw and feelings of dizziness, hopefully, this will pass. I will update my progress over the next few weeks."

• exador
• October 21, 2011

Rituxan (rituximab) for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma "I had Rituximab treatment over four weeks for a lymphoma on my newly (three months) transplanted kidney. The result was total remission, which truly amazed me. It's almost three years now, and I often think about what situation I'd be in if it hadn't been detected purely by chance."

• LJra
• May 29, 2016

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "Took my first dose of Rituxan in Dec 2014 and then 2 weeks later. I was diagnosed with RA in 2000. Took Mtx and Arava - had no disabilities. Didn't like the Mtx, it made my hair thin and fall out. Was placed on Sulfasalazine and took that for 12 years. I had Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2005 and was treated and went into remission. About four years ago, my rheumatoid arthritis pain and suffering really kicked in and really took over my hands and my feet. My new rheumatologist prescribed Rituxan for me. My first dose was in 2014, as I explained. My next dose was in December 2015. I did not feel its effects for about four months. I feel like a new person. A little side effect with each infusion - internal itching ears. Try it."

• Kid
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 14, 2019

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "Started rituximab infusions 7th and 21st March 2019, no problems then. 6 weeks later, massive skin infection, scratching and itching. Tried self-help with antihistamine and skin cream. Could not contact anyone at Rheumatology, contacted own GP, put on antibiotics and steroid cream. On 11th June, check-up with Rheumatology nurse, now suspect cellulitis, contact own GP as soon as possible. GP prescribed more antibiotics. Now it's 8 weeks on and still scratching. When will this nightmare end? I wish I had never gotten involved with rituximab."

• Dalooch
• January 10, 2016

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "I am a 55-year-old male that has been diagnosed with RA. I've been on Rituxan now for 6 years. Through trial and error, it lasted me effectively for one year. By choice, I stopped taking methotrexate that they said should accompany Rituxan about the same time I started infusions. My reasons being reading the possible side effects from methotrexate to one's liver. This drug has been a lifesaver for me from sleepless nights from chronic pain and not being able to walk or even go to work. I have to say it's really giving my life back to me. I've also learned not to ever let this drug wear off because it's, at least for me, like jumping off a cliff. The pain comes back so fast it's unbearable."

• SuzRJ
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 25, 2017

Rituxan (rituximab) for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma "After 6 rounds of chemo (2 drugs, 2 days - Bendamustine & Rituximab), I had Stage 3 B-cell lymphoma, I am cancer-free. My oncologist wants me to do a maintenance program of the Rituximab every 2 months for 2 years. Is the maintenance necessary?"

• Martyni
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• September 11, 2018

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "Having hit nearly all the RA treatments over 15 years and having issues with them, including through-the-roof eosinophilia, peripheral ulcerative keratitis, and pulmonary fibrosis, I needed something other than another TNF drug. I found some information about Rituxan that led me to think a B cell depletion drug might at least prevent or lessen attacks. I talked to my rheumatologist, and he agreed. In the year and a half on Rituxan, I have had zero obvious joint flares and no eye issues. No noticeable side effects. I'm happy."

• Achy...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 16, 2018

Rituxan (rituximab) for Rheumatoid Arthritis "Did not finish first treatment, had scratchy throat reaction. I was there about 4 1/2 hours, getting the medicine for about 50 minutes. I think I could have tolerated it longer, but they quit. What I really don't understand is why this has to be such a massive expensive procedure. I could feel the achiness dissipating in the 50 minutes. Why isn't there a shorter simpler method/option? I would be willing to continue if it were given, say once a month, in a smaller dose and simpler less expensive procedure. probably causing less reaction. Why? Why? Why?"

• Mare
• October 21, 2016

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "I completed my second set of Rituxan infusions two months ago. Some success after the first set and much more success after the second set. I have more energy, fewer flare-ups, sleep much better, navigate better, and feel much better overall. I've had no side effects, either during or after the infusions. I still have pain and lack of function in my hands, arms, and shoulders, however, nothing like I experienced before the infusions. I was diagnosed with RA six years ago and have taken and stopped Methotrexate (intolerance) and Plaquenil (repeating vision testing due to irregularities). I've been on Arava for two years with no side effects. My vector score was 45 and is now down to 33. Thank you, Rituxan!!!"

• Cinly...
• May 22, 2020

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "I’ve had RA since approximately 1986. Been on Riduara, Minocycline and Methotrexate (which I absolutely hated!). In 2000, I started infusions. Remicade for 14 years and then just stopped working. Tried Orencia for three months - never worked. Rheumatologist put me on Actrema - some success for about 18 months and then it quit working altogether. In 2016, my Rheumatologist put me on Rituxan. I’m on a 16-week/2 week cycle. It’s been a great. I sometimes have trouble sleeping the night of my infusion (due to Solumedrol I have to take with it) and then really fatigued for a couple of days after - but I’ll take it. My joints seldom hurt, never swell - I generally feel fine. As with any biologic - I have to be careful not to catch anything (even a simple cold can knock me on my butt) - but I’ve been dealing with that issue for many years. Overall - I’m happy with the results."

• Shell...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• October 22, 2016

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "This will probably only be relevant in the UK. Insurance not relevant. I have been on rituximab for over three years, I find it works very well with negligible side effects. I've had treatments twice a year, but on asking for my next treatment, I was told that because of new funding rules, I can't have it unless I am on methotrexate too. I took oral MTX for 10 years until I developed liver enzymes in blood and severe fatigue. I was offered self-administered injections, which 'have fewer side effects.' But I became very unwell with each successive jab. I had to stop them. I am now not on any anti-TNF drugs, and my health is failing rapidly. My GP is very helpful and is trying to sort this out. Why no provision for people who react badly to MTX?"

• StuartG
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• September 7, 2016

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "I'm in the UK, so the questions regarding insurance and costs do not apply. Following DMARD and latterly anti-TNF treatment's loss of efficacy, rituximab was prescribed. After the first course, it took four months to work, but when it did, I felt day and night different! My flares returned within four months, and a second course was given eight months after the first. Rheumy established that my disease activity was such that I needed six-month interval treatments, and I have just completed my fourth treatment. Side effects: nothing during, but almost immediately post-infusion, I'm wiped out (heavy!), restless, and get a headache. Goes within three days or so. Rituximab works perfectly for me - no flares now the treatment is regular."

• vfree...
• December 26, 2011

For Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis "I have taken this medication 4 times over the past 5 weeks or so. I have had no complications other than a little wheeze caused by a narrowing of my bronchial airways. My CT scan shows a 'dramatic response' to the medications and no new nodules. I am very hopeful that this is the cure for this disease. I am feeling wonderful, and I would encourage anyone to take the chance that it too may change your life. Do your research and then try. I did, and I am so very happy. I have a future now."

• TLB
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• April 4, 2024

Rituxan (rituximab) for Rheumatoid Arthritis "Rituxan has definitely helped my RA. I have had many side effects. Developed Specific Antibody Deficiency from taking Rituxan. I react to it if it's given too fast; itchy throat, cough, itchy face, red face. I always feel sort of 'flu-like' for several days after my infusion. Once I am past all the side effects, it really does make me feel better."

• Sydmave
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• February 2, 2013

Rituxan (rituximab) for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia "I have gone through three rounds of Rituxan for auto-immune hemolytic anemia triggered by early-stage chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Each time, I have had initial reactions with the first dose. My throat and ears get itchy, and my throat starts to swell. They give me IV Benadryl and have administered Decadron, slowed down the infusion, and I have done okay. It is a very gradual improvement in my hemoglobin. So slow that I'm not sure it is working, but my doctors believe it is. The only alternative is prednisone, which makes me completely hyper and unable to sleep. Rituxan is the better alternative. Unfortunately, it is not stopping my AIHA, just keeping my hemoglobin up. It is extremely expensive though."

• why...
• December 11, 2008

Rituxan (rituximab) for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma "This is my second round with Rituxan (3 and 1/2 years ago and now). Two years ago, I had Bexxar. The first infusion helped shrink the nodes and spleen but only by 1/2. The Bexxar brought them to normal size. I'm trying Rituxan again because two nodes popped up 2 and 1/2 years after the Bexxar. It is hoped that the Rituxan will operate as maintenance to remission. If so, the two enlarged nodes will be radiated to keep growth in check."

• CaviL...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 29, 2020

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "I have RA and had my first round of Rituxan on 22June and going for second dose 8 July. Felt pretty great for the first few days with little side effects, thankfully, as so far I’ve been allergic to pretty much everything. Tried Actemera, Xeljanz, Methotrexate and prednisone with little to no relief and a lot of allergies. Woke up in a lot of pain today and am glad I found this page. It seems like it will take a while to start working so I’ll continue to hang in there and be hopeful. Good luck to everyone."

• 27 ye...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• May 2, 2020

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "I have been using Rituxin for the last ten years, getting approximately a year an a half between infusions. Previously I tried every possible group of medications. Nothing worked well. Rituxin gave me a life back. I am 70 and skiing 2-3 marathons a year."

• dublin
• March 26, 2011

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "I have had 2 Rituximab infusions for rheumatoid arthritis, the last one 2 1/2 months ago. I sailed through the infusions with no problem, but 3 or 4 days later, I had extreme edema and burning pain in both lower legs, muscle pain all over my body, felt like I have the flu, and some loss of coordination. I was on 40 mg Lasix for another problem, and my doctor increased it to 80 mg daily, along with Zaroxyl, extra potassium 4 weeks ago, and for the first time today, my legs are normal size. I'll probably discontinue the extra diuretics when I see my doctor tomorrow."

• Ginster
• February 6, 2016

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "Had my first infusion yesterday. It had to be stopped just after an hour and a half due to a rash that developed on my face and spread to my chest and back and severe itching. The doctors took the decision to stop the treatment altogether. Waiting to see my rheumatologist next week to look at options. Have had to stop methotrexate, Enbrel, and Humira due to side effects. Not sure what is left! At 4:40 AM and I have been up since 2 AM with severe itching. The joys of this lovely disease and the side effects of the meds. But can't fault the medical team for their support and efforts."