Name of the Procedure:

Injection, rituximab-abbs, biosimilar, (Truxima), 10 mg (Q5115)

Summary

The procedure involves administering an injection of Truxima, a biosimilar form of rituximab. This medication is used primarily to treat certain types of cancer and autoimmune diseases by targeting specific proteins on the surface of B cells.

Purpose

Truxima is prescribed for conditions such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, rheumatoid arthritis, and some autoimmune diseases. The goal is to reduce the activity of the immune system or shrink tumors, thereby improving symptoms and slowing disease progression.

Indications

• Cancer: Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's granulomatosis).
• Patients should meet specific criteria related to the severity and type of disease to receive this injection.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Patients may need to fast for a few hours and should inform their physician about all medications they are taking.
• Diagnostic Tests: Blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly a skin test for allergic reactions to ensure the patient is a suitable candidate.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated comfortably, and an IV line is placed.
2. Pre-medications may be given to reduce the risk of side effects.
3. The infusion of Truxima is prepared by a nurse or pharmacist.
4. The medication is slowly administered through the IV line, allowing the body to adjust gradually.
5. The patient is monitored throughout the procedure to detect any adverse reactions.

• Tools: IV lines, infusion pumps.
• Anesthesia: Not typically required, but pre-medications to prevent allergic reactions may be used.

Duration

The initial infusion can take several hours. Subsequent infusions may take between 1-2 hours.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a hospital or outpatient clinic where the patient can be closely monitored.

Personnel

• Nurses: Administer the infusion and monitor patient.
• Oncologists/Rheumatologists: Oversee treatment and patient response.
• Pharmacists: Prepare the medication.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Fever, chills, body aches, headache, tiredness.
• Rare Complications: Severe allergic reactions, infections, cardiac issues.
• Management: Close monitoring and medications to alleviate symptoms.

Benefits

• Immediate Benefits: Reduction in symptoms related to malignancy or autoimmune activity.
• Long-term Benefits: Slowing disease progression, achieving remission in some cancers, and improving quality of life.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Hydration, rest, and monitoring for any delayed reactions.
• Recovery Time: Variable; most patients feel some fatigue for a few days.
• Follow-up: Regular appointments to assess the effectiveness and adjust treatment protocols.

Alternatives

• Other Medications: Alternative biologics or chemotherapy.
• Pros and Cons: Alternatives may have different efficacy or side effect profiles and need to be considered individually based on the patient's condition.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Mild discomfort from IV placement, potential side effects like chills or nausea.
• After Procedure: Some fatigue, possible minor side effects, but generally manageable with appropriate care.
• Pain Management: Pre-medications and supportive care are provided to ensure patient comfort.