I just finished two rituximab infusions 10 days ago. The only side effect I had was mild fatigue for about 36 hours immediately following them. I did my normal activities though.
When you get your infusions, you will also be given a steroid (I had solu medrol), ibuprofen, and perhaps Benadryl about 30 minutes before they start the rituximab. When they start the rituximab, they will start very slowly to see how well you tolerate it. If all goes well, they will gradually increase the flow. My first infusion took about 4.5 hours. Second one took just over 3 hours.
My first labs post infusions (1 week after) didn't show much change. I'm told it takes several weeks at least before the drug really starts doing its job.
Good luck!
Pete
dx 1/11
"Every day is a good day. Some are better than others." - unknown
"Take your meds as directed and live your life as fully as you can." - Michael Chacey, MD
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