A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Riximyo, with the active ingredient rituximab, is a monoclonal antibody that targets the CD20 antigen on B lymphocytes. It is used primarily in the treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, rheumatoid arthritis, granulomatosis with polyangiitis, and microscopic polyangiitis. Rituximab works by selectively depleting CD20+ B cells, which are implicated in the pathology of these diseases. This medication helps manage symptoms and can improve the quality of life in patients suffering from these serious conditions.
Before you buy Riximyo, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Riximyo cost.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C6416H9874N1688O1987S44 |
License | FDA approved |
Bioavailability | Not applicable (intravenous injection) |
Legal status | Prescription only |
Chemical Name | Rituximab |
Elimination half-life | 22-29 days |
Dosage (Strength) | 100 mg or 500 mg per vial |
Pregnancy | Contraindicated |
Brands | Riximyo |
Protein binding | Not specified |
PubChem CID | Not available (biological molecule) |
MedlinePlus | a607038 |
ChEBI | Not applicable (biological molecule) |
ATC code | L01XC02 |
DrugBank | DB00073 |
KEGG | D02993 |
Routes of administration | Intravenous |
Riximyo is administered as an intravenous infusion, typically in a clinical setting to ensure proper monitoring of the patient's response and to manage any immediate side effects. The dosage and frequency of Riximyo infusions depend on the condition being treated and the patient's medical history and current health status.
Patients should be monitored for infusion reactions during and after the administration of Riximyo. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the patient's progress and adjust treatment as necessary.
Active Ingredient: Rituximab.
Rituximab can cause severe infusion reactions. Symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, headache, or heart palpitations require immediate medical attention.
As rituximab affects the immune system, there is an increased risk of both new and reactivated viral infections, including hepatitis B.
Patients with a history of cardiovascular disease should be monitored closely, as rituximab can cause cardiac arrhythmias and hypotension.
Rituximab is classified as a category C drug, indicating that it should be used during pregnancy only when the potential benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus.
Rituximab may impair the effectiveness of live vaccines and increase the risk of infection.
Rituximab can cause blood pressure changes; therefore, patients on antihypertensive medications might need dose adjustments.
Concurrent use with other monoclonal antibodies or biologic therapies should be approached with caution, as it may increase the risk of infection or other adverse effects.
Common side effects of Riximyo infusion may include:
What is Riximyo?
Riximyo is a biosimilar medication to rituximab, used to treat certain types of blood cancers and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and pemphigus vulgaris. It works by targeting a protein called CD20 on the surface of B-cells, which are part of the immune system.
What conditions does Riximyo treat?
Riximyo is approved for the treatment of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, rheumatoid arthritis, granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), and microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), among other conditions.
How is Riximyo administered?
Riximyo is administered as an intravenous infusion. The dosage and frequency depend on the condition being treated. For example, in rheumatoid arthritis, it is often given in two doses separated by two weeks, and the cycle can be repeated every six months based on patient response.
Are there any side effects of Riximyo?
Common side effects include infusion-related reactions, infections, and cardiovascular events. Infusion reactions can include fever, chills, and rash. Patients are monitored closely during infusions to manage any adverse effects.
What should I know about switching to Riximyo from another medication?
Switching from an originator biologic like Rituxan to Riximyo involves a transition period where the patient's response is closely monitored. This ensures that the biosimilar provides the same therapeutic benefits without additional risks.
Who should not take Riximyo?
Individuals allergic to rituximab or any of its ingredients, those with severe active infections, and patients with a history of PML should not take Riximyo. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid this medication unless specifically advised by their doctor.
What precautions should be taken when using Riximyo?
Patients should have a hepatitis B test before starting Riximyo due to the risk of reactivation of the virus. Regular monitoring for infections and other side effects is important. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about any other medications they are taking and any upcoming surgeries or vaccinations.