Rituxan if JC+?
Posted: Mon Jun 09, 2014 12:57 pm
I was diagnosed way back in 1991 (22 years ago). I've been incredibly lucky and "passed" up until about 3 years ago. I'm still mobile but have some balance and drop toe issues. I've been on all of the ABC meds, and am currently on Tecfidera and Ampyra. I developed antibodies to Tysabri on the third infusion. I also just tested positive for the JC virus. My neurologist is recommending Rituxan. She's less concerned with my JC + status because evidence shows there's a 1 in 100 risk of PML in Tysabri patients after 2 years and 1 in 25,000 with Rituxan. She has moved her JC virus positive patients who were on Tysabri to Rituxan. They all are doing fine.
So, I'm concerned about infusion reactions. She said they would pre-medicate me with Benadryl. I'm trying to figure out if I'll be able to drive about 30 miles after the infusion or if I should arrange for someone to accompany me.
Thanks for any input. I'm not usually a wimp about this stuff, but Rituxan scares me.
So, I'm concerned about infusion reactions. She said they would pre-medicate me with Benadryl. I'm trying to figure out if I'll be able to drive about 30 miles after the infusion or if I should arrange for someone to accompany me.
Thanks for any input. I'm not usually a wimp about this stuff, but Rituxan scares me.