Rituximab (Rituxan)

What is rituximab?

Rituximab (Rituxan) is an intravenous medication that specifically targets abnormal or overactive B-cells, a subtype of white blood cells crucial to the immune system. In the field of dermatology, rituximab is most commonly used for treating blistering diseases such as pemphigus and bullous pemphigoid, as well as autoimmune conditions like dermatomyositis. It may also be used in the treatment of cutaneous B-cell lymphomas.

What are possible side effects of rituximab?

Rituximab can reduce your white blood cell count, thereby increasing your susceptibility to infections. You may be advised on preventative measures to minimize the risk of infection. During or after the infusion, you might experience flu-like symptoms including fever and chills. If such symptoms occur, treatments can be administered during the infusion to mitigate their severity.

How is rituximab used?

Rituximab is administered via an infusion clinic, often under the supervision of a rheumatologist since most dermatology practices don't have infusion centers. Treatment scheduling is coordinated by your healthcare providers and varies based on the specific condition being treated. For example, in the case of pemphigus, the infusion is typically given once, repeated two weeks later, then again a year later, followed by a maintenance dose every six months. The schedule can differ for off-label uses in dermatology.