Rituximab for Rheumatoid Arthritis User Reviews (Page 2)

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

"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 with in 10 mins I have to get back up it feel like ma whole body is restless and jittery this goes on for hours. I have tried reading but can't concentrate have got back up for a hot drinks then gone back to bed same thing, have had baths at 4 in morning as that seems to help but not all the time. Just wondering if this had happened to anyone else and how did they cope as I'm at the end of my tether and want to sleep."

• Anonymous
• July 18, 2012

"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."

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

"Started Rituximab infusions 7th and 21st March 2019 no problems then. 6 weeks later massive skin infection scratching and itching. Tried self help with anti-histamine and skin cream. Could not contact anyone at Rheumatology, contacted own GP put on Anti-biotics and Steroid cream. On 11th June check up with Reumatology nurse now suspect Cellulitus, contact own GP as soon as possible. GP prescribed more Anti-biotics. Now it's 8 weeks on and still scratching. When will this nightmare end? I wish I had never got involved with Rituximab."

• LJra
• May 29, 2016

"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 made my hair thin and fall out. Was placed on Sulfasazine and took that for 12 years. I had Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2005 and treated and went into remission. About four years ago my rheumatoid arthritis pain and suffering really kicked in and really took over over my hands and my feet. My new rheumatologist prescribe 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."

• azam
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• March 5, 2024

Rituxan (rituximab) "I am diagnosed with both RA and LUPUS and am taking medication for 7+ years (two infusions every 4 months). Medication avoided any visible joint deformations and keeps joint swelling in control. On the LUPUS side, since Rituxan, my organs are very thankful and autoimmune is not able to do any significant damage to any of the organs ... and how I know it ... I was pretty sick for years before Rituxan. Nothing is free though, there are a few side effects which I am able to deal with easily, but as I age and the longer I take this medication, fatigue lasts longer and longer after each infusion. I simply stay in bed longer. I plan on taking the Rituxan as long as my body can deal with the fatigue."

• Dalooch
• January 10, 2016

"I am 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 with the rituxan about the same time I started infusions. My reasons being reading the possible side effects from methotrexate to ones liver. This drug has been a life saver 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 its unbearable."

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

"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. Im happy."

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

Rituxan (rituximab) "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

"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, less 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 infusions. I was diagnosed with RA six years ago and have taken 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

"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

"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 10yrs 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

"I'm in the UK so the questions regarding insurance & 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 4 months and a 2nd course was given 8 months after the first. Rheumy established that my disease activity was such that I needed 6 monthly 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 3 days or so. Rituximab works perfectly for me - no flares now the treatment is regular."

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

"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

"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."

• Ginster
• February 6, 2016

"Had my first infusion yesterday. It as to stopped just after an hour and a half due a rash that developed on face and spread to my chest and back and severe itching. Dr's took the decision to stop the treatment altogether. Waiting to my rheumatologist next week to look at options. Have had to stop methotrexate, enbrel and humira doe died effects. Not sure what is left! At 4:40am and I ave been up since 2 am with severe itching. The joys of this lovely disease ad the side effects f the meds. But can't fault the medical team for their support and efforts"

• dublin
• March 26, 2011

"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 of both lower legs, muscle pain all over my body, feel 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. "

• Sherry
• April 19, 2016

"I am waiting to get final approval for this drug. I spoke to a lady who has been on it for 4 years and she said that it takes a few days to get over an infusion but its just a headache and tiredness. She says this drug has given her life back so a small price to pay. Can't wait to get this drug!"

• Dillo...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 18, 2017

"I had to go off of Embrel and go on Rituxan because I had developed a melanoma. They felt that the Rituxan was less likely to cause a repeat of the melanoma than any of the other Biologics. It actually took two months for it to begin to work. Once it began working, though, it started quickly. I still have to take a low dose of Prednisone every day and some pain medicine, but for the most part it is much more effective. Have only had the two original infusions so I can't say what it will do long term. I had a slight reaction during the infusion, but they slowed it down and increased the Benadryl, and everything was fine. I had to pay $3,000 of the cost of the two infusions since my insurance (tricare) will not discount."

• Heath...
• May 19, 2016

"Yesterday- 5th course Rituximab Infusions.2016 Last 18months ago, I thought I was in remission. Despite a complete removal of processed foods and a very healthy diet and exercise 'plan' (self motivated) I had a big flare up. I have refused Methotrexate for 2.5yrs having tried for 3yrs. I'm happier +healthier. The 1st ever infusion was stopped due to allergic reaction in throat, mouth + rash face+chest. But, Piriton was given +infusion continued. Piriton is now given to everyone now(UK chester), before infusion +advise to take to combat further reactions rash, sore throat etc for 3 days after. This works. I feel washed out,headache3-6days.steroid shakes, lack of sleep, flushes but no ill effects between courses 7months apart."

• SMart
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• August 23, 2018

"Rituxan has worked well for me. It worked where TNF drugs failed. No flares in my joints and no sign of additional damage to my corneas. This is as close to remission that I have been in 21 years of RA."

• RAful...
• April 12, 2015

"The steroid push with the first dose gave me a whirlwind of energy. I am using it to help CIPD - a dying nerve disease. My body started attacking my nerves and I now have fast moving, dense neuropathy feet, legs, hands, forearms. Mayo Clinic decided that this would be a good treatment since I suffer RA as well. I take methotrexate once weekly with the Rituxin. The crash came 3 days later and I felt the effects of the chemo on my body hard. I threw up a few times, felt like the worst hangover ever for the rest of the week (had infusion Tues, now is Sunday) I am still fighting nausea. I really really liked the steroid energy a lot. Now my joints and bones are screaming narcotics. Sleep is not very good for me yet. It's only been 6 days so."

• Luke...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• December 15, 2016

"I was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis as well as vasculitis when I was 5. I'm 38 now and still move remarkably well. I've had my ups and downs through the years but these disease modifying drugs are miracles. I've been on Rituxan for 4 years now. My infusions do take longer than usual since I do experience a cold sweat trembling reaction if the medicine is stepped up to fast. Actually I find the pretreatment meds more difficult than the Rituxan. The benadryl puts me to sleep for most of it, however the medrol makes me bounce off the walls later in the evening. Usually by the next day all is well. I can live 8 months to a year virtually arthritis free"

• nanna...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 19, 2016

"Hi , I'm still waiting for this drug to really kick in, had infusions September 2015, not yet as well as I was on Embrel, but had to change due to new rheumo team. Not impressed really- lots of infections, got to the point of wheelchair use in December, previous to Sept never required a stick, Very slowly starting to regain life- possibly am near 40% of the real me. I'm not at work, not driving, am worried for my job, It's been 19 weeks since the treatment and I want my life back."

• Sister...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• June 10, 2017

"This is for my rheumatoid vasculitus. This first dose caused a reaction but the staff was right on the first indication, adjusted the drip and we continued. It took around 7 hours. The benedril made me fall asleep. The second one two weeks later went without incident, about 4 hours. Five months later, I have been able to reduce my prednisone intake without a flare up of RA, and the nerve pain from the vasculitis has remarkably dwindled from lasting and unbearable to very manageable. It doesn't reverse damage, but my sed rate is around 11 (from 30) and if I didn't have to worry so much about the ghastly cost of this med, at this point I have to say it's been most amazing. There is financial help available I think."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 2, 2022

Rituxan (rituximab) "I had the 2 doses, and it didn't work at all for me. It's been 3 weeks since the last one and no improvement at all. I'm really sad, I was hoping for relief. My fingers, toes, shoulders, knees and ankles are all still a mess."