I’m gonna do it...I’m gonna try Rituxan | Arthritis Information

 

I've been putting it off, hoping that the Imuran would do enough, but it seems that it was just the pred helping me along.

For the last several days I have been in so much pain it's making me nauseated and feverish and I have way to much going on to be able to take it easy.  The pain isn't as bad as it's ever been, but for some reason (STRESS), I'm just not equipped to cope with it at all right now.

So I've had enough, I'm going to try the Rituxan like my dr wants me to.  What have a I got to lose...

Anyone have any advice about Rituxan?  Like when to schedule the appointment for, and how I might feel after the first infusion?

I have no advice...I know nothing about that med.  I just wanted to say that I really hope it works FAST for you.

The major thing is to remember it takes a long time for the infusion.  Six to 7 hours.  Bring water and snacks and I always have a book.

I felt very tired for the next day or two, but other than that no really bad side effects.  But you do need to remember that if you are going to have any negative reactions, they can happen up to 48 hours after the infusion.

 Good luck and I really hope it works for you.

I am one month out from my first Rituxan therapy.  Again, it is a med that affects each person individually.  Most of the people I have heard from, who have done the treatment, recommend patience since the changes have been very subtle. 

Pat
It seems that with the biologics at least, the people who have been helped have felt a big difference.  Pat, is that not true of Rituxan?  Or are you saying it may take a long time to feel a big difference?  How long after the infusions are you supposed to feel an improvement if it is working?I can only speak from a limited viewpoint.  I belong to another board and about 5 or 6 people have tried the infusions.  All but 1 have noticed an improvement, however, all but 1 of those has not noticed an immediate change.  I, myself, am waiting for improvement.  I don't know whether it is my strong desire for this to work or not, but I think I may have a subtle lifting of the really sick feeling.  I still swell, hurt and am tired, but my attitude is a bit better.  One of the people who have had the infusions told me their doctor said it could take up to four months to feel the effects.  Again, it is such a new medicine and works on people so individually that I think they are still gathering data on how it works in RA patients.  I can say that I had no problems with side affects other than, as Crispy stated, some general fatigue for a day or two after. Thanks, I appreciate any viewpoint I can get!  Unfortunately, I think patience is one of the first things to go with RA, and yet that's what we need with every medication that comes along...I don't really know anything about this drug either but hoping its the golden ticket for you! I am about to start it too, Suzanne. Here it is called Mabthera. Any info I come across, I will pass onto you too. I am wanting to learn all I can as well. Let's keep in touch. 
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