See why thousands of patients choose our centers as their preferred destination for ongoing care, including Rituxan Infusion treatments.
Rituxan is a biologic therapy that is indicated to treat:
- moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and currently taking methotrexate
What is Rituxan?
What Is Rituxan?
Rituxan (rituximab) is a prescription medication administered for patients in all IVX Health centers via IV infusion.
How Rituxan Works
Rituxan works by targeting immune cells called B-cells. Overactive B-cells are believed to play a role in the symptoms and joint damage of rheumatoid arthritis.
Rituxan Infusion Dosage & Administration
Rituxan Infusion Dosage and Administration
Patients receive rituximab intravenously. Treatment time for a Rituxan infusion at a medical clinic like IVX Health usually lasts 4-6 hours for the first treatment and 2-3 hours for the following treatments.
Dosage and Frequency
Rituxan is administered in “courses”. Each course consists of two 1-gram infusions given two weeks apart. The courses are separated by 6 months for a total of 4 infusions per year.
Administering Rituxan via IV Infusion
- The nurse prepares the patient’s arm by using rubbing alcohol to sterilize the location that is being used to insert the IV needle.
- Following needle insertion, the IV line is held in place with tape.
- The nurse attaches the patient’s IV line to the line coming down from the bag of medication.
Every half-an-hour, the patient’s nurse takes his or her vitals.
Rituxan Side Effects
Rituxan Infusion Side Effects
As with all medications, side effects are possible.
Common side effects of Rituxan include:
- Infusion-related reactions
- Infections
- Body aches
- Tiredness
- Nausea
- Low white and red blood cell counts
- Swelling
- Diarrhea
- Muscle spasms
Additional more serious side effects include:
- Tumor lysis syndrome
- Serious infections
- Heart problems
- Kidney problems
- Stomach and serious bowel problems
- Severe skin and mouth reactions
Preparing for Your Rituxan Infusion
Follow these steps to prepare for your Rituxan Infusion:
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
- Medical History Review: Ensure your healthcare provider has a complete and up-to-date medical history, including any allergies, current medications, and past reactions to Infusion.
- Pre-Infusion Testing: Complete any required blood tests or other pre-Infusion tests as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Pre-Infusion Medications
- Prescription Pre-Medications: Your Rituxan Infusion may require pre-medications to reduce the risk of a reaction or adverse event. Your referring provider will include any pre-medications when sending in your prescription order.
- Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding these medications, including the timing and dosage. Take these medications about 30-60 minutes before the Infusion as directed.
Hydration and Nutrition
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your Infusion to ensure you are well-hydrated.
- Eat Light: Have a light meal before your Infusion to help maintain your energy levels during the procedure.
Prepare for Comfort
- Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing with easy access to your arms for the Infusion site.
- Entertainment: Bring something to keep you occupied, such as a book, tablet, or music, as your treatment or observation period may take several hours.
Plan for Transportation
- Arrange a Ride: Depending on the medication and your reaction to the Infusion, you might not feel well enough to drive yourself home. Consider arranging for someone to drive you or use a ride service.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your Rituxan Infusion is as safe and comfortable as possible. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare team.
How to Get a Referral for Rituxan
Every Rituxan Infusion referral must be accompanied by a physician’s order for treatment.
Patient information should include:
- Name
- Current address
- Home and mobile phone number
- Insurance information
Information the physician must include on the patient’s order for therapy:
- Patient’s name and DOB
- Order date
- Diagnosis
- Physician’s name and NPI#
- Office address, phone, and fax numbers
- Provider’s signature
Clinical documentation from the physician should include information to support a diagnosis for one or more of the following:
- moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and currently taking methotrexate
If you or someone you care about has one of the conditions that Rituxan treats, IVX Health would be honored to provide your care. To find an IVX Health center near you, please click here.
Patients choose IVX Health for ongoing Rituxan treatments because:
- ALL private suites
- Comfortable recliners, with chairs for guests
- Evening & weekend appointments
- Friendly clinical staff deliver personal service
- Big screen TVs, high-speed WiFi, free snacks
Interested in moving your care to IVX Health?
Interested?
IVX Health would love to learn more about your care needs. If you’re interested in switching your infusion services – or if you just want to learn more – let us know.
