Ritcema 100mg Injection

About

Rituximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody specifically designed to target the CD20 protein, a transmembrane antigen found on the surface of pre-B and mature B-lymphocytes, but not on hematopoietic stem cells, pro-B cells, or plasma cells. Upon binding to CD20, rituximab initiates a potent cascade of immune-mediated events, including antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), and direct induction of apoptosis. This multifaceted action leads to the selective depletion of CD20-positive B-cells from the peripheral blood and lymphoid tissues. The therapeutic benefit of B-cell depletion is evident in various B-cell lymphomas and autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and certain vasculitides, where B-cells play a pathogenic role in disease progression and inflammation. Its targeted mechanism allows for effective disease control while sparing other immune cells, making it a cornerstone in the treatment of these conditions.

Uses

• Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (CD20-positive)
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
• Rheumatoid arthritis (moderate to severe)
• Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's) and microscopic polyangiitis

Directions For Use

Administered as an intravenous infusion by a healthcare professional. Dosage and infusion rate are determined by your doctor based on your condition.

Benefits

• Targets and depletes CD20-positive B-cells
• Effective in various B-cell malignancies
• Reduces disease activity in autoimmune conditions
• Can induce long-term remission
• Improves symptoms and quality of life
• Well-established safety profile in approved indications

Side Effects

• Infusion-related reactions (fever, chills, nausea)
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Peripheral edema
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Leukopenia
• Neutropenia
• Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) (rare)
• Hepatitis B reactivation
• Tumor lysis syndrome

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - No specific interaction with alcohol, but alcohol consumption should be discussed with a doctor, especially during cancer treatment.
• Pregnancy - Not recommended during pregnancy as it can cause B-cell depletion in the fetus; use effective contraception.
• Breastfeeding - Avoid breastfeeding as rituximab can be excreted in breast milk and may cause B-cell depletion in the infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with a history of hepatitis B infection due to the risk of reactivation; screening is recommended.
• Kidney - Generally considered safe in patients with kidney conditions; no specific dose adjustment is usually required.
• Lung - Use with caution in patients with pre-existing lung conditions, as infusion-related reactions can affect respiratory function.

Disclaimer

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