Rituxan (Rituximab) Infusion Protocol
Not yet clinically reviewed
This protocol was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia and Ward Guide apps for educational use. Follow your hospital's own policies and consult seniors when in doubt.
Rituxan 375mg/m2 I/V
Rituxan is administered only as an intravenous infusion. Do not administer as an intravenous push or bolus. It should only be administered by a healthcare professional with appropriate medical support to manage severe infusion-related reactions, which can be fatal, if they occur. Use a sterile needle and syringe to prepare Rituxan
First infusion (Day 1)
Initiate infusion at a rate of 50 mg/h
In the absence of an infusion-related reaction, increase infusion rate by 50 mg/h increments every 30 min, to a maximum of 400 mg/h
Total infusion time: 4 hrs and 15 min
Second infusion (Day 15) and subsequent infusions
Initiate infusion at a rate of 100 mg/h
In the absence of an infusion-related reaction, increase infusion rate by 100 mg/h increments every 30 min, to a maximum of 400 mg/h
Total infusion time: 3 hrs and 15 min
Maintenance treatment
Initiate infusion at a rate of 100 mg/h
In the absence of an infusion-related reaction, increase infusion rate by 100 mg/h increments every 30 min, to a maximum of 400 mg/h
Maintenance dose (500 mg) infusion bag concentration will change and the infusion drip rate will change accordingly
Total infusion time: 2 hrs
Infusion-Related Reactions Rituxan can cause severe, including fatal, infusion-related reactions. Severe reactions typically occurred during the first infusion with time to onset of 30-120 min. Depending on the severity of the infusion-related reaction and the required interventions, temporarily or permanently discontinue Rituxan. Institute medical management (e.g., glucocorticoids, epinephrine, bronchodilators, or oxygen) for infusion-related reactions as needed. Resume infusion at a minimum 50% reduction in rate after symptoms have resolved.