rituksymab

Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody used in the treatment of certain autoimmune diseases and cancers. It is a chimeric antibody, meaning it is composed of both mouse and human genetic material. Rituximab targets the CD20 protein, which is found on the surface of B lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. By binding to CD20, rituximab causes these B cells to be destroyed by the immune system.

In cancer treatment, rituximab is primarily used for certain types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. It can be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy. By depleting B cells, it can help to reduce the number of cancerous cells.

For autoimmune diseases, rituximab is used to treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, granulomatosis with polyangiitis, and microscopic polyangiitis. In these conditions, B cells play a role in the immune system's attack on the body's own tissues. Rituximab's ability to reduce the number of B cells can help to dampen this autoimmune response and alleviate symptoms.

Rituximab is administered intravenously. Common side effects can include infusion-related reactions, such as fever, chills, and rash. More serious side effects, though less common, can include infections and reactivation of certain viruses. The use of rituximab requires careful monitoring by healthcare professionals.