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A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Long Beach, CA
August 26, 2018
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A MyMSTeam Member

It's OK to be nervous about your first infusion. It totally seems scary but you'll hopefully find it's not. I know I wasn't prepared for the nerves coupled with the amount of liquid the infusion brought, be sure you locate the restroom upon entering the infusion area not that you don't already do this, and just go with it. For your first one they keep you for a short period after the infusion. That's normal. I never watch the IV being put into my arm but if you have a good tech they will distract you while they put the IV in. It's not that it hurts, it doesn't really, but I can't watch this process. Guess I'm a wuss. The day after you are going to feel like a truck hit you but just wait. I have never felt better than 2 days after my first infusion since I didn't know I had MS. Remember a doctor thought Ritux was a med worth you trying and they would get sued if Ritux would hurt you. Ultimately, you are going to be fine. So try to enjoy. I know Ritux was the best thing for me but that and 2 bucks might get you a gallon of gas

August 27, 2018
MyMSTeam

Here are some key points about Rituxan (Rituximab) for Multiple Sclerosis that might be helpful:

Administration
- Dosage: Administered as two intravenous infusions, 15 days apart.
- Duration: Each infusion usually takes two to four hours.
- Onset: Begins taking effect about six weeks after the second infusion.
- Duration Show Full Answer

Here are some key points about Rituxan (Rituximab) for Multiple Sclerosis that might be helpful:

Administration:
- Dosage: Administered as two intravenous infusions, 15 days apart.
- Duration: Each infusion usually takes two to four hours.
- Onset: Begins taking effect about six weeks after the second infusion.
- Duration of Effect: Effects may last for up to nine months.

Common Side Effects:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fever and chills
- Nausea
- Heartburn
- Flushed skin

Serious Side Effects:
- Infections: Increased risk due to decreased immune function. Watch for signs like fever, cough, trouble breathing, white patches in the mouth, pain or burning during urination, or unusual vaginal discharge.
- Allergic Reactions: Seek immediate help if you experience trouble breathing, severe dizziness, rash, or swelling of the face, tongue, and throat.
- Neurological Symptoms: Report confusion, weakness on one side of the body, vision changes, difficulty talking or walking, or trouble concentrating to your doctor immediately.

Tips for Managing Infusion Side Effects:
- Premedication: Ask your healthcare team about premedication to reduce infusion reactions.
- Monitoring: Watch carefully for any changes in your symptoms and report them to your healthcare team.
- Support: Engage with others who understand your condition for emotional support and shared experiences.

Additional Information:
- Rituxan is sometimes prescribed off-label for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and progressive forms of MS.
- It may slow disease progression and decrease the size of brain lesions in people with MS.

For more details, you can visit the provided link: [Rituxan (Rituximab) for Multiple Sclerosis | MyMSTeam](https://www.mymsteam.com/treatments/rituxan).

Good luck with your treatment!

July 25, 2024
A MyMSTeam Member

@A MyMSTeam Member I’m only guessing, but I wonder how many other doctors think along the lines of mine in that Rituxan essentially does the same thing but has been out much longer and has a better safety profile? Using Rituxan also allows me to stay on Copaxone but I’m not sure how many others use both simultaneously.

August 27, 2018
A MyMSTeam Member

Rituxan, although still available, has been replaced by Ocrevus. Is there a reason why your Neurologist is not recommending Ocrevus ?

August 27, 2018
A MyMSTeam Member

@A MyMSTeam Member. I think you posted your personal question as an answer to someones question, thats why theres no answers.

August 27, 2018

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A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
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