Indicated for: hematologic malignancies
Substance: rituximab (monoclonal antibody)
ATC: L01FA01 (Antineoplastic and immunomodulating agents | Monoclonal antibodies and antibody drug conjugates | Cd20 (clusters of differentiation 20) inhibitors)
Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody used in the treatment of various autoimmune diseases and hematological cancers, such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and rheumatoid arthritis. It works by targeting the CD20 protein expressed on the surface of B lymphocytes, leading to their destruction through immune mechanisms.
Rituximab is administered intravenously, usually in cycles, and is used either as monotherapy or in combination with other chemotherapeutic or immunosuppressive agents. It is indicated to reduce disease activity, prolong remission, and improve patients' quality of life.
Common side effects include infusion reactions, fever, chills, nausea, and fatigue. In rare cases, severe adverse reactions such as serious infections, reactivation of hepatitis B, or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) may occur. Careful monitoring of patients during and after administration is essential.
Rituximab is a valuable therapeutic option for patients with autoimmune diseases and hematological cancers, offering significant benefits in disease control and survival extension.