Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
MSN Has Opened a New Location in Lutz!
Click Here to Sign Up for our 8/20 Open House!
Rituxan® (rituximab) is a monoclonal antibody treatment used for various autoimmune diseases and certain blood cancers by targeting CD20, a protein found on B-cells. By attaching to CD20, Rituxan® helps remove harmful B-cells, reducing inflammation and the immune system's attack on healthy tissue.
At MS & Neuromuscular Center of Excellence, we specialize in using Rituxan infusion therapy for neurological conditions including multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, and neuropathy. Rituxan's unique ability to target B-cells makes it particularly effective for autoimmune neurological disorders where B-cells contribute to nerve and muscle damage.
Rituxan IV infusion is administered at our specialized infusion center. The Rituxan infusion protocol typically includes:
The treatment schedule varies based on your specific condition. Common protocols include:
Premedications are typically given before each infusion to minimize the risk of infusion reactions.
In autoimmune neurological conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in the nervous system. B-cells—a type of white blood cell—play a central role in this process by producing antibodies that target the body's own nerves, muscles, or myelin (the protective covering around nerves). This leads to inflammation, nerve damage, and the symptoms associated with conditions like multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, and certain forms of neuropathy.
Rituxan works through a specific mechanism:
What makes Rituxan unique is its historical significance as the first monoclonal antibody approved for targeting CD20, and its proven effectiveness across multiple autoimmune conditions. As a chimeric monoclonal antibody, Rituxan specifically destroys B-cells while sparing other important immune components, providing targeted treatment for autoimmune diseases.
While Rituxan does not cure autoimmune neurological conditions, it helps quiet the overactive immune response that contributes to disease activity, slowing progression and improving stability over time. The timeline for seeing results varies by condition and individual response. The first infusion takes effect within days as B-cells are depleted, but clinical improvements (e.g., reduced symptoms or disease activity) typically become noticeable over several weeks to months as inflammation decreases and the immune system stabilizes.
Like all medications, Rituxan can cause side effects. Common side effects include:
Serious Rituxan infusion side effects require immediate medical attention and include:
Your healthcare team at our infusion center will monitor you closely during and after each Rituxan infusion treatment to ensure your safety.
The cost of Rituxan infusion depends on several factors, including your insurance coverage and plan. Understanding the Rituxan infusion cost is important, and at MS & Neuromuscular Center of Excellence, we are committed to helping patients receive treatment affordably and with minimal stress.
We work with most major commercial insurance providers in the region, including Aetna, BayCare, Advent Health, Cigna, AvMed, Assurant, and others. Our team ensures you receive maximum coverage for your Rituxan infusion therapy.
Our experienced team provides comprehensive support to make treatment more accessible:
Our infusion center is led by board-certified neurologists and experienced BSN-prepared Registered Nurses who specialize in infusion therapy for neurological disorders. Our team has advanced training and extensive experience managing patients with multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, and neuropathy. Our healthcare providers understand the nuances of B-cell depleting therapies and how to optimize outcomes for each patient.
Our comprehensive approach also includes advanced diagnostic capabilities such as electromyography to accurately assess nerve and muscle function, ensuring your treatment plan is tailored to your specific condition.
We manage all insurance processes and guide patients through financial assistance options. Physician-owned infusion sites like MS & Neuromuscular Center of Excellence's Infusion Center typically help patients achieve lower overall costs than hospital-based centers, making the Rituxan infusion cost more manageable for our patients.
Providing expert, compassionate care for 35+ years to individuals across the region with MS and other neurological conditions. Our decades of experience with Rituxan infusion protocol and other immunotherapies means we understand not only the clinical aspects of treatment but also the real-world impact on our patients' daily lives.
Referral Form:
Rituxan®What It Treats:
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL)
B-cell acute leukemia (B-AL)
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) (Wegener’s Granulomatosis)
Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA)
Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV)
FDA Approval:
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL): Approved on November 26, 1997
B-cell acute leukemia (B-AL): Approved on February 10, 2006
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Approved on February 19, 2010
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): Approved on February 28, 2006
Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) (Wegener’s Granulomatosis): Approved on September 27, 2019
Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA): Approved on September 27, 2019
Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV): Approved on June 7, 2018
Manufacturer:
Genentech
I had a wonderful experience with Dawn Rushe-Wilde, ARNP. She was very thorough in her exam and took the time to answer all my questions. I would highly recommend her!
She was great. Couldn't ask for anybody better. Hopefully, hopefully, he will keep up that good work and that communication. She listened well. I want to say that she needs to not change anything about herself
I am a new patient and so far everything has been great.
I had a great experience with Dr Cascione. He is the go to for MS. Extremely knowledgeable. Answered all my questions. He took lots of time with me. I checked in, and they took me right away.The staff is very nice. Five stars from me.
Wonderful, caring neurology group with excellent listening skills and proactive modalities. "Dr" Dawn (APRN) is fabulous with botox. Love them.
Dr Cascione is the best! I have been seeing him for a long time. He listens to what I have to say. He spends a lot of time in the room and when you are done you know he has gone over everything. He is compassionate, caring and just an over all good Dr. I highly recommend anyone who has Multiple Sclerosis to use him as your neurologist.
I felt very comfortable with Dr Cascione. He is very knowledgeable I found I trusted him immediately which is rare for me I have been to many Md’s for my MS he knows what MS is all about.
Dawn came in the exam room fully prepared, including looking at the forms I had just brought in from a recent medical visit elsewhere. She is familiar with my history and asks for any updates from me. She explains things thoroughly, taking time to answer any questions and to make recommendations. Thank you, Dawn, for your excellent care
Dr. Sivakolundu is an excellent doctor. He’s knowledgeable and competent. He and his staff are very friendly. I’d absolutely recommend this place.
This was my first visit for migraines and Shreya Patel NP made me feel completely at ease. She took the time to answer every question and explained everything before we began. I highly recommend her and the entire staff.
Short wait, employees are friendly and helpful. Dr Cascione is very knowledgeable, patient and listens. He takes notes to remember everything you tell him and is very compassionate. He suggests new meds that may benefit you. Everyone in the office makes you feel welcome and cared for.
Dawn is attentive and compassionate regarding my ailments. Very informative, discusses all options of treatment. Most importantly I feel “Heard” and I feel safe with her
I am so grateful for Dr. Schneider and his staff. My 15 year old daughter started getting debilitating migraines about 2 years ago. His staff was incredible and was able to get her in to see him on short notice! He was thorough (poured over all her medical records), compassionate (made connections with my daughter through athletics), and really listened. I left his neurologist's office and felt a sense of hope. Thank you, Dr. Schneider and staff!!
Dr. Jean-Raphael Schneider and his team are amazing. He truly listened to my migraine problems and have developed a plan to help me. Dr. Schneider's expertise in his field is evident, and it's clear that he is highly educated. I feel confident in his ability to help me overcome my migraines.
He is a 5 star migraine management specialist and I am grateful to have found him when I so desperately needed migraine relief. I wish he and all of his staff well
I saw Dr Sivakolundu for the first time yesterday and he did more for me in one appointment then my previous neuro did in 6 months. I feel blessed to have found him and totally trust my care in his hands.
I am always pleased with Shreya! She is friendly and professional, answers all of my questions and my treatment is quick and virtually pain free.
Dr Sivakolundu was very thorough, caring, and listened to all my questions. He took his time and I felt I had his undivided attention through the entire appointment.
Ms. Patel is extremely knowledgeable and understanding. I appreciate the efficiency of our visits as well as the thoroughness. My treatment plan approach is outstanding. The meds attack my dual diagnosis of different headaches and is very effective. She always confirms to make sure the efficacy of the treatment plan each visit. I feel extremely comfortable being in her care
Sherya Patel has been the kindest, patient, most helpful & professional ARPN I’ve ever encountered. She takes the time to answer all our questions. My husband and I have seen her for years and couldn’t be happier.
My daughter has MS, we had an appointment with Dr. Cascione and I have nothing but praises to say about this doctor. He spent so long in the room talking to me and my daughter about MS, treatment, and lifestyle choices to aid my daughter in understanding her MS. Dr. Cascione was so easy to talk to and so kind throughout the entire appointment.
Dr. Sivakolundu is incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely kind. He takes his time, listens carefully, and never makes you feel rushed or dismissed. I truly appreciated his patience and professionalism. Highly recommend.
Dawn Rush-Wild is very thorough doctor and a thoughtful listener. She provides options and doesn't push you into any of them. She has your best interests at heart.
Im so happy I found him he is caring and listens and will give you the best treatment.
I never leave reviews but Dr. Schneider is extremely helpful and reassuring. He personally called and went over my results multiple times and answered any question I had. He has extremely well bedside manner and is very knowledgeable. His staff is extremely nice as well!
Dr. Schneider and his team….WOW!!! I am super impressed on my first visit. Very knowledgeable, professional and kind. Dr. Schneider was thorough in addressing all my concerns and he sets the bar high for all other doctors! Their office is beautiful and comforting….again setting the bar high.
I had a great experience with Dr Cascione. He is the go to for MS. Extremely knowledgeable. Answered all my questions. He took lots of time with me. I checked in, and they took me right away.The staff is very nice. Five stars from me.
I felt very comfortable with Dr Cascione. He is very knowledgeable I found I trusted him immediately which is rare for me I have been to many Md’s for my MS he knows what MS is all about.
Short wait, employees are friendly and helpful. Dr Cascione is very knowledgeable, patient and listens. He takes notes to remember everything you tell him and is very compassionate. He suggests new meds that may benefit you. Everyone in the office makes you feel welcome and cared for.
Dr Cascione is the best! I have been seeing him for a long time. He listens to what I have to say. He spends a lot of time in the room and when you are done you know he has gone over everything. He is compassionate, caring and just an over all good Dr. I highly recommend anyone who has Multiple Sclerosis to use him as your neurologist.
My daughter has MS, we had an appointment with Dr. Cascione and I have nothing but praises to say about this doctor. He spent so long in the room talking to me and my daughter about MS, treatment, and lifestyle choices to aid my daughter in understanding her MS. Dr. Cascione was so easy to talk to and so kind throughout the entire appointment.
I am a new patient and so far everything has been great.
Im so happy I found him he is caring and listens and will give you the best treatment.
Dr. Sivakolundu is an excellent doctor. He’s knowledgeable and competent. He and his staff are very friendly. I’d absolutely recommend this place.
Dr Sivakolundu was very thorough, caring, and listened to all my questions. He took his time and I felt I had his undivided attention through the entire appointment.
Dr. Sivakolundu is incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely kind. He takes his time, listens carefully, and never makes you feel rushed or dismissed. I truly appreciated his patience and professionalism. Highly recommend.
I saw Dr Sivakolundu for the first time yesterday and he did more for me in one appointment then my previous neuro did in 6 months. I feel blessed to have found him and totally trust my care in his hands.
Dr. Schneider and his team….WOW!!! I am super impressed on my first visit. Very knowledgeable, professional and kind. Dr. Schneider was thorough in addressing all my concerns and he sets the bar high for all other doctors! Their office is beautiful and comforting….again setting the bar high.
This was my first visit for migraines and Shreya Patel NP made me feel completely at ease. She took the time to answer every question and explained everything before we began. I highly recommend her and the entire staff.
Sherya Patel has been the kindest, patient, most helpful & professional ARPN I’ve ever encountered. She takes the time to answer all our questions. My husband and I have seen her for years and couldn’t be happier.
I am always pleased with Shreya! She is friendly and professional, answers all of my questions and my treatment is quick and virtually pain free.
Ms. Patel is extremely knowledgeable and understanding. I appreciate the efficiency of our visits as well as the thoroughness. My treatment plan approach is outstanding. The meds attack my dual diagnosis of different headaches and is very effective. She always confirms to make sure the efficacy of the treatment plan each visit. I feel extremely comfortable being in her care
She was great. Couldn't ask for anybody better. Hopefully, hopefully, he will keep up that good work and that communication. She listened well. I want to say that she needs to not change anything about herself
Dawn is attentive and compassionate regarding my ailments. Very informative, discusses all options of treatment. Most importantly I feel “Heard” and I feel safe with her
I had a wonderful experience with Dawn Rushe-Wilde, ARNP. She was very thorough in her exam and took the time to answer all my questions. I would highly recommend her!
Dawn came in the exam room fully prepared, including looking at the forms I had just brought in from a recent medical visit elsewhere. She is familiar with my history and asks for any updates from me. She explains things thoroughly, taking time to answer any questions and to make recommendations. Thank you, Dawn, for your excellent care
Dr. Jean-Raphael Schneider and his team are amazing. He truly listened to my migraine problems and have developed a plan to help me. Dr. Schneider's expertise in his field is evident, and it's clear that he is highly educated. I feel confident in his ability to help me overcome my migraines.
He is a 5 star migraine management specialist and I am grateful to have found him when I so desperately needed migraine relief. I wish he and all of his staff well
I am so grateful for Dr. Schneider and his staff. My 15 year old daughter started getting debilitating migraines about 2 years ago. His staff was incredible and was able to get her in to see him on short notice! He was thorough (poured over all her medical records), compassionate (made connections with my daughter through athletics), and really listened. I left his neurologist's office and felt a sense of hope. Thank you, Dr. Schneider and staff!!
I never leave reviews but Dr. Schneider is extremely helpful and reassuring. He personally called and went over my results multiple times and answered any question I had. He has extremely well bedside manner and is very knowledgeable. His staff is extremely nice as well!
Wonderful, caring neurology group with excellent listening skills and proactive modalities. "Dr" Dawn (APRN) is fabulous with botox. Love them.
Dawn Rush-Wild is very thorough doctor and a thoughtful listener. She provides options and doesn't push you into any of them. She has your best interests at heart.
I had a great experience with Dr Cascione. He is the go to for MS. Extremely knowledgeable. Answered all my questions. He took lots of time with me. I checked in, and they took me right away.The staff is very nice. Five stars from me.
I felt very comfortable with Dr Cascione. He is very knowledgeable I found I trusted him immediately which is rare for me I have been to many Md’s for my MS he knows what MS is all about.
Short wait, employees are friendly and helpful. Dr Cascione is very knowledgeable, patient and listens. He takes notes to remember everything you tell him and is very compassionate. He suggests new meds that may benefit you. Everyone in the office makes you feel welcome and cared for.
Dr Cascione is the best! I have been seeing him for a long time. He listens to what I have to say. He spends a lot of time in the room and when you are done you know he has gone over everything. He is compassionate, caring and just an over all good Dr. I highly recommend anyone who has Multiple Sclerosis to use him as your neurologist.
My daughter has MS, we had an appointment with Dr. Cascione and I have nothing but praises to say about this doctor. He spent so long in the room talking to me and my daughter about MS, treatment, and lifestyle choices to aid my daughter in understanding her MS. Dr. Cascione was so easy to talk to and so kind throughout the entire appointment.
I am a new patient and so far everything has been great.
Im so happy I found him he is caring and listens and will give you the best treatment.
Dr. Sivakolundu is an excellent doctor. He’s knowledgeable and competent. He and his staff are very friendly. I’d absolutely recommend this place.
Dr Sivakolundu was very thorough, caring, and listened to all my questions. He took his time and I felt I had his undivided attention through the entire appointment.
Dr. Sivakolundu is incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely kind. He takes his time, listens carefully, and never makes you feel rushed or dismissed. I truly appreciated his patience and professionalism. Highly recommend.
I saw Dr Sivakolundu for the first time yesterday and he did more for me in one appointment then my previous neuro did in 6 months. I feel blessed to have found him and totally trust my care in his hands.
Dr. Schneider and his team….WOW!!! I am super impressed on my first visit. Very knowledgeable, professional and kind. Dr. Schneider was thorough in addressing all my concerns and he sets the bar high for all other doctors! Their office is beautiful and comforting….again setting the bar high.
This was my first visit for migraines and Shreya Patel NP made me feel completely at ease. She took the time to answer every question and explained everything before we began. I highly recommend her and the entire staff.
Sherya Patel has been the kindest, patient, most helpful & professional ARPN I’ve ever encountered. She takes the time to answer all our questions. My husband and I have seen her for years and couldn’t be happier.
I am always pleased with Shreya! She is friendly and professional, answers all of my questions and my treatment is quick and virtually pain free.
Ms. Patel is extremely knowledgeable and understanding. I appreciate the efficiency of our visits as well as the thoroughness. My treatment plan approach is outstanding. The meds attack my dual diagnosis of different headaches and is very effective. She always confirms to make sure the efficacy of the treatment plan each visit. I feel extremely comfortable being in her care
She was great. Couldn't ask for anybody better. Hopefully, hopefully, he will keep up that good work and that communication. She listened well. I want to say that she needs to not change anything about herself
Dawn is attentive and compassionate regarding my ailments. Very informative, discusses all options of treatment. Most importantly I feel “Heard” and I feel safe with her
I had a wonderful experience with Dawn Rushe-Wilde, ARNP. She was very thorough in her exam and took the time to answer all my questions. I would highly recommend her!
Dawn came in the exam room fully prepared, including looking at the forms I had just brought in from a recent medical visit elsewhere. She is familiar with my history and asks for any updates from me. She explains things thoroughly, taking time to answer any questions and to make recommendations. Thank you, Dawn, for your excellent care
Dr. Jean-Raphael Schneider and his team are amazing. He truly listened to my migraine problems and have developed a plan to help me. Dr. Schneider's expertise in his field is evident, and it's clear that he is highly educated. I feel confident in his ability to help me overcome my migraines.
He is a 5 star migraine management specialist and I am grateful to have found him when I so desperately needed migraine relief. I wish he and all of his staff well
I am so grateful for Dr. Schneider and his staff. My 15 year old daughter started getting debilitating migraines about 2 years ago. His staff was incredible and was able to get her in to see him on short notice! He was thorough (poured over all her medical records), compassionate (made connections with my daughter through athletics), and really listened. I left his neurologist's office and felt a sense of hope. Thank you, Dr. Schneider and staff!!
I never leave reviews but Dr. Schneider is extremely helpful and reassuring. He personally called and went over my results multiple times and answered any question I had. He has extremely well bedside manner and is very knowledgeable. His staff is extremely nice as well!
Wonderful, caring neurology group with excellent listening skills and proactive modalities. "Dr" Dawn (APRN) is fabulous with botox. Love them.
Dawn Rush-Wild is very thorough doctor and a thoughtful listener. She provides options and doesn't push you into any of them. She has your best interests at heart.
I had a great experience with Dr Cascione. He is the go to for MS. Extremely knowledgeable. Answered all my questions. He took lots of time with me. I checked in, and they took me right away.The staff is very nice. Five stars from me.
I felt very comfortable with Dr Cascione. He is very knowledgeable I found I trusted him immediately which is rare for me I have been to many Md’s for my MS he knows what MS is all about.
Short wait, employees are friendly and helpful. Dr Cascione is very knowledgeable, patient and listens. He takes notes to remember everything you tell him and is very compassionate. He suggests new meds that may benefit you. Everyone in the office makes you feel welcome and cared for.
Dr Cascione is the best! I have been seeing him for a long time. He listens to what I have to say. He spends a lot of time in the room and when you are done you know he has gone over everything. He is compassionate, caring and just an over all good Dr. I highly recommend anyone who has Multiple Sclerosis to use him as your neurologist.
My daughter has MS, we had an appointment with Dr. Cascione and I have nothing but praises to say about this doctor. He spent so long in the room talking to me and my daughter about MS, treatment, and lifestyle choices to aid my daughter in understanding her MS. Dr. Cascione was so easy to talk to and so kind throughout the entire appointment.
I am a new patient and so far everything has been great.
Im so happy I found him he is caring and listens and will give you the best treatment.
Dr. Sivakolundu is an excellent doctor. He’s knowledgeable and competent. He and his staff are very friendly. I’d absolutely recommend this place.
Dr Sivakolundu was very thorough, caring, and listened to all my questions. He took his time and I felt I had his undivided attention through the entire appointment.
Dr. Sivakolundu is incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely kind. He takes his time, listens carefully, and never makes you feel rushed or dismissed. I truly appreciated his patience and professionalism. Highly recommend.
I saw Dr Sivakolundu for the first time yesterday and he did more for me in one appointment then my previous neuro did in 6 months. I feel blessed to have found him and totally trust my care in his hands.
Dr. Schneider and his team….WOW!!! I am super impressed on my first visit. Very knowledgeable, professional and kind. Dr. Schneider was thorough in addressing all my concerns and he sets the bar high for all other doctors! Their office is beautiful and comforting….again setting the bar high.
This was my first visit for migraines and Shreya Patel NP made me feel completely at ease. She took the time to answer every question and explained everything before we began. I highly recommend her and the entire staff.
Sherya Patel has been the kindest, patient, most helpful & professional ARPN I’ve ever encountered. She takes the time to answer all our questions. My husband and I have seen her for years and couldn’t be happier.
I am always pleased with Shreya! She is friendly and professional, answers all of my questions and my treatment is quick and virtually pain free.
Ms. Patel is extremely knowledgeable and understanding. I appreciate the efficiency of our visits as well as the thoroughness. My treatment plan approach is outstanding. The meds attack my dual diagnosis of different headaches and is very effective. She always confirms to make sure the efficacy of the treatment plan each visit. I feel extremely comfortable being in her care
She was great. Couldn't ask for anybody better. Hopefully, hopefully, he will keep up that good work and that communication. She listened well. I want to say that she needs to not change anything about herself
Dawn is attentive and compassionate regarding my ailments. Very informative, discusses all options of treatment. Most importantly I feel “Heard” and I feel safe with her
I had a wonderful experience with Dawn Rushe-Wilde, ARNP. She was very thorough in her exam and took the time to answer all my questions. I would highly recommend her!
Dawn came in the exam room fully prepared, including looking at the forms I had just brought in from a recent medical visit elsewhere. She is familiar with my history and asks for any updates from me. She explains things thoroughly, taking time to answer any questions and to make recommendations. Thank you, Dawn, for your excellent care
Dr. Jean-Raphael Schneider and his team are amazing. He truly listened to my migraine problems and have developed a plan to help me. Dr. Schneider's expertise in his field is evident, and it's clear that he is highly educated. I feel confident in his ability to help me overcome my migraines.
He is a 5 star migraine management specialist and I am grateful to have found him when I so desperately needed migraine relief. I wish he and all of his staff well
I am so grateful for Dr. Schneider and his staff. My 15 year old daughter started getting debilitating migraines about 2 years ago. His staff was incredible and was able to get her in to see him on short notice! He was thorough (poured over all her medical records), compassionate (made connections with my daughter through athletics), and really listened. I left his neurologist's office and felt a sense of hope. Thank you, Dr. Schneider and staff!!
I never leave reviews but Dr. Schneider is extremely helpful and reassuring. He personally called and went over my results multiple times and answered any question I had. He has extremely well bedside manner and is very knowledgeable. His staff is extremely nice as well!
Wonderful, caring neurology group with excellent listening skills and proactive modalities. "Dr" Dawn (APRN) is fabulous with botox. Love them.
Dawn Rush-Wild is very thorough doctor and a thoughtful listener. She provides options and doesn't push you into any of them. She has your best interests at heart.
