Ritumab
Generic Name
Ritumab 10 mg Injection
Manufacturer
Global Biopharma Inc.
Country
USA
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| ritumab 10 mg injection | ৳ 55,000.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Ritumab is a recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody that selectively targets the CD20 antigen, a transmembrane protein found on pre-B and mature B lymphocytes. It is used in the treatment of certain autoimmune diseases and lymphomas.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies significantly based on indication and patient weight. For NHL, typically 375 mg/m² intravenously once weekly for 4-8 doses. For RA, 1000 mg intravenously as two infusions 2 weeks apart, repeated every 6-12 months.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment required for elderly patients based on age alone.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment required for patients with renal impairment.
How to Take
Administer as an intravenous infusion, typically diluted in 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% dextrose solution. Premedication (e.g., antihistamine, antipyretic, corticosteroid) is recommended to reduce infusion-related reactions.
Mechanism of Action
Ritumab binds specifically to the CD20 antigen on B lymphocytes, initiating cell lysis through complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), and induction of apoptosis. This leads to depletion of CD20-positive B cells.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
B-cell depletion typically begins within days of the first infusion.
Excretion
Mainly through proteolytic degradation; minimal renal excretion of intact antibody.
Half life
Approximately 18-24 days (varies by indication and dosing).
Absorption
Administered intravenously, hence 100% bioavailability.
Metabolism
Catabolized via protein degradation pathways; not metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to Ritumab or any of its components
- Active, severe infections
- Severe heart failure or uncontrolled severe cardiac disease
Drug Interactions
Immunosuppressants
Increased risk of infection when co-administered.
Live Attenuated Vaccines
Should not be given concurrently due to potential for reduced immune response and increased risk of infection.
Antihypertensive Medications
Temporary hypotension may occur during infusion, requiring careful management.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Overdose
There is no specific antidote for Ritumab overdose. In clinical trials, no dose-limiting toxicity has been observed beyond the recommended dose. Management should be supportive and symptomatic.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Ritumab can cause B-cell depletion in infants. Avoid during pregnancy unless potential benefit outweighs risk. Excretion into breast milk is unknown; caution advised.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to Ritumab or any of its components
- Active, severe infections
- Severe heart failure or uncontrolled severe cardiac disease
Drug Interactions
Immunosuppressants
Increased risk of infection when co-administered.
Live Attenuated Vaccines
Should not be given concurrently due to potential for reduced immune response and increased risk of infection.
Antihypertensive Medications
Temporary hypotension may occur during infusion, requiring careful management.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Overdose
There is no specific antidote for Ritumab overdose. In clinical trials, no dose-limiting toxicity has been observed beyond the recommended dose. Management should be supportive and symptomatic.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Ritumab can cause B-cell depletion in infants. Avoid during pregnancy unless potential benefit outweighs risk. Excretion into breast milk is unknown; caution advised.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months from manufacturing date when stored correctly.
Availability
Hospitals and Specialized Pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved (Hypothetical)
Patent Status
Patented
Clinical Trials
Ongoing and completed clinical trials are evaluating Ritumab in various indications, including new oncology and autoimmune disease subsets, and for biosimilar development. Phase 3 trials have demonstrated efficacy and safety in NHL and RA.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
- Renal Function Tests
- Hepatitis B screening (prior to treatment)
- Immunoglobulin levels
Doctor Notes
- Premedicate patients before each infusion to mitigate infusion-related reactions.
- Closely monitor for signs of infection, especially during and after B-cell depletion.
- Counsel patients on the risks of PML and other severe adverse events.
Patient Guidelines
- Report any signs of infection immediately (fever, sore throat, cough).
- Report any severe skin reactions or neurological changes.
- Adhere strictly to the infusion schedule.
- Discuss all medications, including OTC drugs and supplements, with your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, contact your doctor or healthcare provider immediately to reschedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Ritumab may cause fatigue, dizziness, or other neurological symptoms. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how Ritumab affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick or have infections.
- Avoid live vaccines during and after Ritumab treatment.
- Maintain good hygiene to minimize infection risk.
- Discuss family planning as Ritumab can affect fetal development.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.