Rituxan has been used in rheumatology for over two decades, making it one of the most established biologic infusions available for patients with difficult-to-control autoimmune disease. At Scottsdale Rheumatology Center, our physicians have extensive experience prescribing and managing Rituxan therapy, and our in-house infusion suite gives patients a comfortable, closely monitored setting to receive each dose.
Many patients are referred for Rituxan after other biologics haven't controlled their disease well enough. Because Rituxan has such a long history of clinical use, rheumatologists have a deep understanding of how patients typically respond, what to watch for, and how to sequence it with other therapies. This track record is one reason Rituxan remains a go-to option when first- and second-line treatments fall short.
Rituxan targets CD20, a marker found on B-cells, which play a central role in driving inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and vasculitis. By reducing B-cell activity, Rituxan helps calm this overactive immune response, often leading to significant symptom improvement in patients who've struggled with other treatments.
Rituxan is given as two infusions, two weeks apart, followed by a period of monitoring before your rheumatologist reassesses whether a repeat course is needed — often around six months later for RA, though timing depends on your individual case. During each visit:
Because Rituxan affects the immune system, our physicians screen for infections and review your full medical history before starting treatment. Your care team monitors closely for infusion reactions during each visit. Talk with your rheumatologist about your individual risk factors and what monitoring will look like for you.
Its long track record gives physicians a strong understanding of expected response patterns, making it a trusted option, particularly for patients who haven't responded to other treatments.
How long has Rituxan been used in rheumatology?Rituxan has been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis for over 15 years and remains a well-studied, widely used therapy.
Is Rituxan still a first-choice option today?It's most often used after other treatments haven't worked well enough, though your rheumatologist will determine the right sequencing for your specific case.
Book an appointment with Scottsdale Rheumatology Center to find out if Rituxan is right for you.
Related: Rheumatoid Arthritis | Vasculitis | Infusion Suite
