Overview Of The Best Arthritis Medications

Emily Fowler

Rituximab

Photo Credit: Dreamstime

Rituximab is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and certain types of cancer. It is administered as an intravenous infusion. However, doctors must first ensure that this medication is safe for their patient. Thus, they will want to know if their patient has ever had lung, liver, or kidney disease. Patients should also inform their doctor if they have had hepatitis, cardiovascular disease, angina, chickenpox, herpes, shingles, or West Nile virus. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take this medicine. Patients must have blood tests before starting treatment. In addition, frequent follow-up tests are necessary for proper monitoring. Patients should not receive live vaccines when they are taking this medication.

Rituximab can cause depression, muscle spasms, painful urination, low white blood cell counts, and swelling of the hands or feet. Patients should alert their doctor right away if they experience certain side effects. Side effects that merit this include vomiting, severe stomach pain, mouth sores, painful skin, chest pain, and signs of infection. These may occur several months after the patient has received rituximab. They can also happen after treatment ends.

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Rituximab

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