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A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question πŸ’­
Parsons, TN

My rheumatologist has signed me up for Rituximab infusions because my SLE is not responding to treatment. I'm supposed to do 4 in total- 1 every 2 weeks x 1 month, wait 22 weeks, then do 1 every 2 weeks for another month. I'm already on 400 mg Plaquenil daily, 2 grams CellCept daily, 200 mg Benlysta injection weekly, and 5 mg Prednisone daily as needed for flare symptoms. I'm worried about my liver and kidneys at this point. I've been so symptomatic. I can't catch a break.

May 28
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A MyLupusTeam Member

I'm sorry to hear it's been so rough, McKayla! I'm sure you're doing everything possible to take great care of yourself, including plenty of rest, UV protection (SPF 70 or higher), a healthy diet, and stress reduction. Gentle exercise also helps, if possible. I hope you're not trying to work at this point.

You may want to consider eliminating dairy if you haven't tried it, as it is inflammatory, like other animal products. A plant-based diet is worth considering, too, as some people go into remission with that, and it has helped me. Many experts consider it the least inflammatory diet, and it may help you. You have to do your research to balance your diet appropriately, and consulting a nutritionist can be helpful. At the very least, eliminating dairy and increasing your intake of fruits, veggies, and beans/lentils can help, as reported in a British study a few years ago.

Try not to get discouraged, and please keep us posted. Sending hugs and blessings.
πŸ’œπŸ˜˜

May 29
A MyLupusTeam Member

MaKayla! I've had good experience with Rituxamab infusions. I have taken for about 6 years. I did get concerned after changing to a new Rheumatologist and she sent me to see Kidney doctor. I have scaring on both kidneys, several cyst on both, and she told me not to worry that it wasn't detrimental that I was going to be recheck every 3 months. I am watching my diet .Take care of yourself

June 3
MyLupusTeam

It's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed when you're already on multiple medications and now adding rituximab to the mix. That's a lot to manage, and your concerns about your liver and kidneys are valid and worth taking seriously.

Rituximab is a biologic therapy given by IV infusion, often used when other Show Full Answer

It's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed when you're already on multiple medications and now adding rituximab to the mix. That's a lot to manage, and your concerns about your liver and kidneys are valid and worth taking seriously.

Rituximab is a biologic therapy given by IV infusion, often used when other treatments haven't been enough to control SLE. While it's not officially FDA-approved for lupus, rheumatologists do use it in cases like yours where the disease remains active despite other treatments. Regarding your organ health concerns, here are some important things to keep in mind:

- Tell your rheumatologist directly about your kidney and liver worries β€” they should be monitoring both regularly given your current medication load
- CellCept and Plaquenil both require routine bloodwork to monitor organ function, so make sure those checks are up to date
- Rituximab can increase the risk of serious infections, so your immune system will need close watching
- Common side effects of rituximab include body aches and joint pain during or after infusions

Being this symptomatic while on so many medications is exhausting, and it makes complete sense that you're worried. The goal of adding rituximab is to finally get better control of your SLE β€” sometimes it takes finding that right combination.

Don't hesitate to ask your rheumatologist for a full organ function panel before starting infusions, just for peace of mind. You deserve to feel informed and supported every step of the way. πŸ’™

May 28

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