As is the case with any other medication, there may be some instances where Rituxan interactions can occur. In these cases, such use is not recommended, or usage will have to be adjusted in order to prevent or reduce the risk of negative interactions occurring from other drugs, medical conditions, or even food and drink.
PLEASE NOTE: The information on this page is not complete. Always consult with your physician before taking anything with Rituxan.
Drug Interactions
According to the FDA, drugs that may interact with Rituxan (rituximab) include the following.
- Cisplatin
Please note that this list may not be complete, and other interactions with drugs not listed here may occur. There are many other drug interactions not listed.
Rituxan and Bendamustine
There are no negative interactions indicated between these two drugs. In fact, Rituxan (rituximab) and bendamustine (Treanda) may be used in concert to treat b-cell lymphoma symptoms.
Rituxan and Revlimid
There is no clear evidence of interactions between Rituxan (rituximab) and Revlimid (lenalidomide).
Rituxan and Warfarin
There are no indications of interactions between Rituxan (rituximab) and warfarin (Coumadin).
Rituximab and Vaccines
It is not recommended that a person take rituximab with certain live vaccines, including those for measles, mumps, rotavirus, rubella, varicella, and zoster. Cautions should be taken when combining rituximab with other vaccines, as well, including those for yellow fever, typhoid, and smallpox.
Rituximab and Methotrexate
There is no indication of interactions between rituximab and methotrexate.
Rituximab and Hyaluronidase
Rituximab and hyaluronidase combine to create the brand name medication Rituxan Hycela, which is for the treatment of follicular lymphoma, diffuse large b-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
Food Interactions
Sometimes the foods we eat and the beverages we drink can also interact with our medications. Food and drink that may interact with Rituxan include:
- There are no specific food interactions listed for rituximab
Please note that this list may not be complete, and there may be other foods and beverages that interact with this drug.
Rituxan and Alcohol
For more information, please visit our page on Rituxan and alcohol interactions.
Disease & Conditions Interactions
Sometimes certain medications can increase the risk of negative side effects for patients with certain diseases or other medical conditions. According to the FDA, diseases, and medical conditions that are known to interact with Rituxan negatively include:
- Infections
Please note that this list may not be complete, and there may be other diseases and medical conditions where patients should not take this medication.
Rituxan and COVID 19
There is some indication that patients taking anti-CD20 drugs like Rituxan may experience severe complications if they develop COVID19 infection. More research is necessary to confirm this issue, though.
Rituxan and Lupus
Rituxan may be necessary to treat some features of lupus if other therapies are not responsive.
Rituxan and MS (Multiple Sclerosis)
Rituxan is sometimes part of a treatment plan for multiple sclerosis. The indications are that long-term use for MS is likely safe.
Rituxan and ITP (Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura)
Rituxan is an option in the treatment of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. Approximately 77 percent of patients do experience side effects when using this medication, including fever, chills, and headaches.
Rituxan and Weight Gain
A small number of patients who take Rituxan after chemotherapy experience weight gain. Rapid weight gain can be a symptom of tumor lysis syndrome, as well. Anyone experiencing rapid weight gain while taking Rituxan should notify their healthcare provider.
Rituxan and Pregnancy
For more information, please visit our page on Rituxan and pregnancy risks.
Rituximab and Hepatitis B
Patients taking rituximab may experience reactivation of hepatitis B during treatment. The physician may provide prophylaxis medication to prevent hep B reactivation. Patients should check with their medical providers if they experience yellowing skin or eyes, dark brown urine, or pain in the abdomen. They should report any past history of hepatitis B before beginning treatment.
Other Interactions
Other potential interactions include the following.
Rituxan and Sun Exposure
The skin may be more sensitive to sunlight during treatment with Rituxan. That may mean a higher risk of sunburn when outside.
Rituxan and Immune System
Long-term use of Rituxan may weaken the immune system, leading to other medical problems including an increased risk of infection.
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.
