My experience of rituximab

(Mabthera) infusions

03/12/08: Jean Bailey-Dering

I had my first two infusions of rituximab (Mabthera) early in 2007, having ‘failed’ on Enbrel, Humira and Infliximab. The three latter are anti-TNFa treatments and I was eager to try Mabthera as I knew that it worked in a different way. I understand that its efficacy is contingent on which aspect of the individual’s autoimmune system is best targeted.

I was quite unwell when I had the infusions and was eagerly awaiting an improvement in my symptoms. There was little change initially but, after a few weeks, my symptoms began to ease. Once begun, the improvement continued rapidly. Blood tests showed that my levels of inflammation were the lowest that they’d been for years. I was less tired and had more mental and physical energy. I resumed several of my hobbies and was even delighted when my husband commented that I might become ‘unbearable’ if I continued to sing (badly) and joke around all the time. I’d been low in spirits for so long that the poor man had forgotten that he’d married a very annoying person.

So, Mabthera transformed my life. However, I did make one mistake. I forgot that the effects don’t last forever. Those of us who have lived with RA for some time often become so adapted to pain, fatigue and loss of ability that we forget how it felt to be relatively well. Consequently, it was another 12 months and a return to dependence on a wheelchair before I had my next round of Mabthera, whereas I believe that the average time for optimal success between infusions is between six and nine months. I had two more infusions earlier this year and, once more, there was a period of approximately a month before I saw an improvement. Again, the effects have been radical. I can truthfully say that I haven’t experienced this level of wellbeing for many years. If anything, I would say that the second round of infusions have been even more successful than the first. I feel very fortunate to have been given access to Mabthera and I hope to continue to be ‘unbearable’ for as long as possible.