Rituxan (rituximab) may not be the right choice for every patient. In such cases, it is important to discuss with a medical provider potential Rituxan alternatives.
NOTE: The information on this page may not be complete since every patient is different. Always discuss alternatives with your physician.
Rituxan Alternatives
What are your options when it comes to alternatives for Rituxan?
For RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis)
There are many options available in the treatment of RA. Humira (adalimumab), for example, is sometimes used as a treatment alone or in combination with DMARDs like Rituxan. Kevzara (sarilumab) is one option for those who don’t respond well to other medications, including Rituxan. Orencia (abatacept) is a newer class of drugs that may be effective for rapidly progressing RA.
For MS (Multiple Sclerosis)
Infusion treatments for MS include Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) for the treatment of relapsing forms of MS. Tysabri (natalizumab) blocks the movement of certain immune cells from the brain to the spinal cord and is often the first line of defense in the treatment of severe MS.
For Lupus
Biologics such as Benlysta (belimumab) can help reduce the symptoms of the disease.
For ITP (Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura)
Rituxan can help increase platelet counts for patients with ITP. Other drugs that can accomplish this include Promacta (eltrombopag) or Nplate (romiplostim).
For Lymphoma
Obinutuzumab has the same action as Rituxan in the treatment of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
For Vasculitis
The specific medication used in the treatment of this condition depends on the severity and type of vasculitis. Some potential alternatives could include Imuran (azathioprine) and Cellcept (mycophenolate). Both offer the same steroid-sparing approach as Rituxan.
For Myasthenia Gravis
Alternatives for myasthenia gravis include Azasan (azathioprine) or Cellcept (mycophenolate). Both drugs are immunosuppressants so that they would accomplish the same immune system control at Rituxan.
For CLL (Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia)
Targeted drugs that take advantage of the vulnerabilities of cancer cells might serve as the best alternative to Rituxan for the treatment of CLL.
For NMO (Neuromyelitis Optica)
Rituxan is typically used to help prevent attacks of NMO. Other drugs that may do this include Imuran (azathioprine) or Cellcept (mycophenolate mofetil).
For Hemolytic Anemia
Rituximab is sometimes an option for steroid-resistant cases. Alternatives to this treatment would include Imuran (azathioprine) or cyclophosphamide, chemotherapy drugs that affect the body in different ways.
Rituximab Alternatives
What are your options for rituximab alternatives, the generic form of Rituxan?
For CIDP (Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy)
Immunosuppressive drugs like rituximab can reduce certain functions of the immune system. Alternatives to rituximab could include cyclophosphamide. It does not target B cells like rituximab, but it does affect the immune system.
For TTP (Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura)
Rituximab affects B cells, which can help control TTP. Cablivi (caplacizumab) is an alternative option. This drug is designed for the treatment of TTP in conjunction with plasma exchange and immunosuppression.
Rituximab Natural Alternative
Some studies indicate that vitamin and mineral supplements might replace rituximab in the treatment of lymphomas, but it is unclear how effective they are to manage the disease. Herbals options include example, garlic, ginkgo biloba, and ginseng; they may serve as immune modulators. Given the seriousness of these conditions, though, it’s important to work with a healthcare professional when developing a treatment plan.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.
