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Rituximab is a medication that can lead to severe or even life-threatening side effects. Below are important safety details and warnings you should be aware of:

• Severe Breathing and Heart Issues: Some individuals may experience serious respiratory or cardiac complications, including irregular heartbeat or heart attack, often after the initial intravenous infusion. Seek immediate medical assistance if you encounter breathing difficulties, swelling (particularly of the throat or lips), dizziness, or chest pain.

• Serious Skin Reactions: Rarely, rituximab may cause severe skin conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. Notify your healthcare provider immediately if you notice symptoms such as rashes, blistering, peeling skin, or sores.

• Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML): This medication may rarely lead to a serious brain infection, potentially resulting in brain damage. If you experience symptoms such as loss of coordination, weakness, changes in thinking, difficulty speaking or walking, vision changes, or seizures, contact your doctor right away.

• Hepatitis B Reactivation: Individuals with a history of hepatitis B may experience a reactivation of the virus. Prior to starting treatment, your doctor will conduct a hepatitis B test. Notify your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms like nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, dark urine, or yellowing skin/eyes.

• Infusion-Related Reactions: During the first rituximab infusion, there is a risk of hypersensitivity reactions. Symptoms might include rash, difficulty breathing, or fever. Treatment should be administered as an intravenous infusion initially to manage any reactions promptly.

• Tumor Lysis Syndrome: This condition can occur when cancer cells release their contents into the bloodstream, leading to potential organ damage. It is most common during the first treatment cycle. Report any signs such as nausea, fatigue, or loss of appetite promptly.

• Infection Risks: Rituximab can increase susceptibility to serious infections. Symptoms like fever, chills, muscle aches, or severe fatigue should prompt immediate consultation with your healthcare provider.

• Cardiac Concerns: Serious heart issues, including irregular rhythms or heart attacks, may occur. Your doctor might monitor your heart function closely during treatment.

• Kidney and Gastrointestinal Issues: Some individuals may experience kidney problems or gastrointestinal complications, such as intestinal blockages or tears. Report any persistent stomach pain or nausea to your healthcare provider.

• Vaccination Precautions: Ensure all vaccinations are current before starting treatment. Live vaccines should be avoided during rituximab therapy, and inactivated vaccines should be administered at least four weeks prior to starting treatment.

• Pregnancy Risks: Rituximab can be harmful to an unborn child. Women capable of becoming pregnant should use effective contraception during and for 12 months after treatment. Inform your oncologist immediately if you become pregnant while on rituximab.

In case of an overdose or any severe reactions, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and report any concerning symptoms promptly.

When using this medication, some common side effects may occur, but they are usually mild and manageable. These include pain, redness, bruising, or itching at the injection site, headache, nausea, weakness, dizziness, and tiredness. Other frequently reported effects are a lower white blood cell count, nausea, fever, constipation, hair loss, a lower platelet count, cough, vomiting, diarrhea, numbness, and tingling. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, it's advisable to contact a healthcare provider.

There are more serious side effects that, although less common, require immediate medical attention. These include signs of stomach or intestinal blockage such as persistent vomiting or abdominal pain, increased thirst or urination, and swelling or tingling of the hands or feet. A decrease in blood cells can lead to bleeding problems and infections, so watch for easy bruising, black stools, or signs of infection like a persistent sore throat.

Rituximab can sometimes cause tumor lysis syndrome, characterized by symptoms like flank pain, kidney issues (like painful or bloody urination), or muscle spasms. Allergic reactions, though rare, can manifest as a rash, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing and also require urgent care. Serious side effects like infusion-related reactions, severe skin reactions, gut tears, or serious heart issues warrant immediate medical attention. Always stay vigilant and consult a healthcare provider for any concerns.