Preparing for Your RITUXAN Infusion
Use this checklist before each infusion to help make sure you are ready:
- Ask your doctor or nurse about your medicine
If you take any other medicines, remind your doctor or nurse. Do not start any new medications without talking to your doctor. Your doctor may give you special instructions that day. - Read the Medication Guide
Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about your treatment with RITUXAN. - Arrange transportation
The medicines that are given to help reduce severe infusion-related reactions may make you drowsy or dizzy, so it is a good idea to have someone else drive you home after treatments. - Ask questions
Be sure to tell your doctor or nurse about any concerns you have before beginning your infusion. - Pack something to eat and drink
There are no special rules about what you should eat or drink before an infusion. You may be at the clinic most of the day, so you may want to take some snacks or a packed meal. - Pack something to do
Activities such as crossword puzzles, crochet, or a book to read can help you pass the time.
What should I tell my doctor before receiving RITUXAN?
Before receiving RITUXAN, tell your doctor if you:
- Have had a severe reaction to RITUXAN or a rituximab product
- Have a history of heart problems, irregular heartbeat or chest pain
- Have lung or kidney problems
- Have had an infection, currently have an infection, or have a weakened immune system
- Have or have had any severe infections including:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV)
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV)
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV)
- Parvovirus B19
- Varicella zoster virus (chickenpox or shingles)
- West Nile Virus
- Have had a recent vaccination or are scheduled to receive vaccinations. You should not receive certain vaccines before or during treatment with RITUXAN
- Have any other medical conditions
- Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks to your unborn baby if you receive RITUXAN during pregnancy. Females who are able to become pregnant should use effective birth control (contraception) during treatment with RITUXAN and for 12 months after the last dose of RITUXAN. Talk to your healthcare provider about effective birth control. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think that you are pregnant during treatment with RITUXAN
- Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. RITUXAN may pass into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 6 months after your last dose of RITUXAN
- Are taking any medications, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements
Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show to your doctor and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. Do not take any new medicine without talking with your doctor.