RA Support Center

Living with RA since 2002
Taking Rituxan since 2006

Jay and Dr. Mease Discuss How Rituxan Works to Help Manage RA

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Targeted and Tested:
How Rituxan Works

Part of the reason rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is so difficult to treat is because scientists still don't completely understand what causes the disease. However, we do know that RA develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's joints.

Unlike other RA treatments, Rituxan works by targeting certain white blood cells in the immune system. These cells are called "B-cells," and they are believed to play a key role in the immune system's attack on joints. By limiting this attack, Rituxan can limit the pain, symptoms, and joint damage of RA.

Although Rituxan works differently from other RA treatments, it has been tested extensively. In fact, Rituxan has more than 10 years of clinical experience across all approved uses and over 1,000,000 patient exposures.

Rituxan Targets Specific B-cells within the Immune System

Step 1

Step 1:

Rituxan targets specific white blood cells believed to play a role in the immune system’s attack on the joints.

Step 2

Step 2:

By limiting this attack, Rituxan can reduce RA pain, symptoms, and the rate of joint damage.

INDICATION STATEMENT

Rituxan® (rituximab) in combination with methotrexate is indicated to reduce signs and symptoms and to slow the progression of structural damage in adult patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis who have had inadequate response to one or more TNF antagonist therapies.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Rituxan can cause the following serious side effects, some of which could be life threatening: progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), infusion reactions, tumor lysis syndrome(TLS), and severe skin reactions. Other serious side effects with Rituxan include hepatitis B virus reactivation, heart problems, infections, and stomach and bowel problems. Common side effects during Rituxan infusions include: fever , headache, chills and shakes, nausea, itching, hives, cough, sneezing, throat irritation or tightness. If you experience any symptoms or side effects during or after Rituxan treatment, seek immediate medical attention.

Please see full Prescribing Information and the Medication Guide for additional important information.

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