Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is Rituxan. It helps your body get rid of 'B-cells' when they are causing illness. B-cells are part of your immune system. Rituxan can help treat non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions. 

Rituxan is given as a slow infusion in your vein, usually in your arm.  Sometimes, allergic reactions happen. They can be mild, but in rare cases, they can be very serious. Your doctor and nurse will be prepared to treat an allergic reaction. They will also give you medicine before each dose to prevent one. The allergy medicine may make you sleepy, so have somebody drive you home after your dose.  They will tell you which symptoms to report during and after the infusion. You may feel tired or achy. This is normal if it is mild, and should go away.

As with any medicine, rare but more serious side effects can occur. For full information, you should read the Medication Guide before each dose. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will order blood tests and follow you closely. 

This medicine can lower your ability to fight infections. You should tell your doctor right away if you think you have an infection. This includes small infections, like open cuts and sores, to whole body infections like fevers or the flu. 

It's important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medicines or getting vaccines. 
 
Women should take extreme care to avoid pregnancy during treatment and for 12 months after the last dose. 

For best results with Rituxan, follow your doctor's advice for eating, resting and light exercise that may help you feel best.