Reditux 100 Injection

1. Product Introduction

Reditux 100 Injection is a monoclonal antibody medicine that contains Rituximab, which is primarily used for treating certain types of cancers and autoimmune diseases. Rituximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that specifically targets the CD20 protein found on the surface of B-lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell). It works by binding to this protein and destroying abnormal B-cells, which are often responsible for cancers and immune system disorders.

Reditux is a biosimilar to the original Rituximab product (Rituxan or MabThera), offering comparable safety, quality, and efficacy at a more cost-effective price. It is administered intravenously and must be given under the supervision of a trained medical professional in a clinical or hospital setting.

2. Uses of this Medicine

Reditux 100 Injection is prescribed for various health conditions involving abnormal or overactive B-cells. These include:

• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL): A cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, especially B-cell types.

• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): A slow-growing blood cancer that affects B-lymphocytes.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joints.

• Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) and Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA): Inflammatory conditions affecting blood vessels.

• Pemphigus Vulgaris: A rare autoimmune skin condition causing blistering.

The dosage and frequency depend on the specific medical condition and the patient’s health status. In cancer therapy, it may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy.

3. Benefits of this Medicine

• Targeted Therapy: Reditux specifically targets and destroys B-cells expressing CD20, leading to reduced disease activity in both cancer and autoimmune disorders.

• Effective in Hematological Cancers: Proven to improve survival rates in Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and CLL.

• Reduces Autoimmune Activity: By depleting B-cells, it helps control immune system overactivity in conditions like RA and GPA.

• Combination Friendly: Works well in combination with other drugs such as chemotherapy or disease-modifying agents.

• Lower Risk of Systemic Toxicity: Since it targets specific cells, there is often less damage to healthy tissue compared to traditional chemotherapy.

• Cost-effective Option: As a biosimilar, Reditux provides similar therapeutic effects at a reduced cost compared to branded Rituximab.

4. Side Effects

Like all powerful medications, Reditux can cause side effects, some of which require medical attention. These may vary from person to person.

Common Side Effects:

• Infusion-related reactions (fever, chills, rigors)

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Nausea or vomiting

• Low white blood cell count (increased risk of infection)

• Joint or muscle pain

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis

• Hepatitis B reactivation (especially in patients with a prior infection)

• Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) – a rare brain infection

• Heart problems including irregular heartbeat

• Tumor lysis syndrome – a serious condition due to rapid cancer cell destruction

Precautions:

• Pre-screening for hepatitis B virus is essential before starting Reditux.

• Patients must be monitored for signs of infection, breathing issues, or neurological changes.

• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless advised by a specialist.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is Reditux 100 Injection used for?
A: Reditux is used for the treatment of certain types of blood cancers such as Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, and autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, GPA, and pemphigus vulgaris.

Q2. How is Reditux administered?
A: Reditux is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion under the supervision of a healthcare provider. The infusion rate is slow, especially during the first dose, to minimize the risk of allergic reactions.

Q3. How soon can I expect results after taking Reditux?
A: The time to see results depends on the condition being treated. In cancers, results may be seen after a few cycles. In autoimmune diseases, improvement may take several weeks.

Q4. Is Reditux a chemotherapy drug?
A: Reditux is not traditional chemotherapy but a monoclonal antibody that works through the immune system to target and destroy specific cells. However, it is often used in combination with chemotherapy.

Q5. Can Reditux be used in children?
A: Its use in children depends on the specific condition and should only be done under the guidance of a pediatric specialist.