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
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 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!
Dr Lee is kind, thorough in her exam, and explains diseases and treatments in an easy way to understand. She is a very likable and knowledgeable doctor. The clinic is well ran and the front desk staff were genuinely nice not only to me but to the other patients as well. I am so happy with this clinic and doctor after my original doctor retired
Dr. Lee is very personable, professional, and knowledgeable. She is not rushed and spends all the necessary time with you during the visit, answering all questions, I highly recommend a Dr. Lee.
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.
Dr. Rivera Vega was extremely caring, she listened to me, she read my records and discussed the plan with me. Very thorough exam and excellent care!
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.
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.
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 Lee is extremely thorough and caring! She always answers all my questions and takes adequate time addressing all of my medical concerns. Great 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
Dr. Rivera Vega is a wonderful, compassionate and kind doctor. She takes her time with each patient. She is very knowledgeable and wants to make sure her patients understand everything that’s going on. I highly recommend her!
Dr. Lee is very personable, professional, and knowledgeable. She is not rushed and spends all the necessary time with you during the visit, answering all questions, I highly recommend a Dr. Lee.
Wonderful, caring neurology group with excellent listening skills and proactive modalities. "Dr" Dawn (APRN) is fabulous with botox. Love them.
I was able to see Dr. Nelitza Rivera-Vega and the visit was pristine! The front desk staff and nurse were so sweet and helpful. Multiple Sclerosis can be such a scary illness but Dr. Rivera-Vega was so thorough during the entire exam. She gathered my entire history with time and patience. Would recommend this office to anyone!
Dr Rivera-Vega did a great job spent adequate time, and was very knowledgeable in all aspects of my neurological health. I am very happy to have her as my neurologist!
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 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 Lee is an excellent doctor that has provided me with expert care. I suffer from acute neuropathy and she was able to provide treatment and found part of my pain was actually coming from my lower back. After having my back treated the pain has been significantly reduced. I'm so glad and fortunate to have found such a great neurologist
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
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
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 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 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.
Dr. Rivera Vega was extremely caring, she listened to me, she read my records and discussed the plan with me. Very thorough exam and excellent care!
I was able to see Dr. Nelitza Rivera-Vega and the visit was pristine! The front desk staff and nurse were so sweet and helpful. Multiple Sclerosis can be such a scary illness but Dr. Rivera-Vega was so thorough during the entire exam. She gathered my entire history with time and patience. Would recommend this office to anyone!
Dr. Rivera Vega is a wonderful, compassionate and kind doctor. She takes her time with each patient. She is very knowledgeable and wants to make sure her patients understand everything that’s going on. I highly recommend her!
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
Dr. Lee is very personable, professional, and knowledgeable. She is not rushed and spends all the necessary time with you during the visit, answering all questions, I highly recommend a Dr. Lee.
Dr Lee is extremely thorough and caring! She always answers all my questions and takes adequate time addressing all of my medical concerns. Great Care!!!
Dr Lee is an excellent doctor that has provided me with expert care. I suffer from acute neuropathy and she was able to provide treatment and found part of my pain was actually coming from my lower back. After having my back treated the pain has been significantly reduced. I'm so glad and fortunate to have found such a great neurologist
Dr Lee is kind, thorough in her exam, and explains diseases and treatments in an easy way to understand. She is a very likable and knowledgeable doctor. The clinic is well ran and the front desk staff were genuinely nice not only to me but to the other patients as well. I am so happy with this clinic and doctor after my original doctor retired
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!
Dr Rivera-Vega did a great job spent adequate time, and was very knowledgeable in all aspects of my neurological health. I am very happy to have her as my neurologist!
Wonderful, caring neurology group with excellent listening skills and proactive modalities. "Dr" Dawn (APRN) is fabulous with botox. Love them.
Dr. Lee is very personable, professional, and knowledgeable. She is not rushed and spends all the necessary time with you during the visit, answering all questions, I highly recommend a Dr. Lee.
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 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.
Dr. Rivera Vega was extremely caring, she listened to me, she read my records and discussed the plan with me. Very thorough exam and excellent care!
I was able to see Dr. Nelitza Rivera-Vega and the visit was pristine! The front desk staff and nurse were so sweet and helpful. Multiple Sclerosis can be such a scary illness but Dr. Rivera-Vega was so thorough during the entire exam. She gathered my entire history with time and patience. Would recommend this office to anyone!
Dr. Rivera Vega is a wonderful, compassionate and kind doctor. She takes her time with each patient. She is very knowledgeable and wants to make sure her patients understand everything that’s going on. I highly recommend her!
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
Dr. Lee is very personable, professional, and knowledgeable. She is not rushed and spends all the necessary time with you during the visit, answering all questions, I highly recommend a Dr. Lee.
Dr Lee is extremely thorough and caring! She always answers all my questions and takes adequate time addressing all of my medical concerns. Great Care!!!
Dr Lee is an excellent doctor that has provided me with expert care. I suffer from acute neuropathy and she was able to provide treatment and found part of my pain was actually coming from my lower back. After having my back treated the pain has been significantly reduced. I'm so glad and fortunate to have found such a great neurologist
Dr Lee is kind, thorough in her exam, and explains diseases and treatments in an easy way to understand. She is a very likable and knowledgeable doctor. The clinic is well ran and the front desk staff were genuinely nice not only to me but to the other patients as well. I am so happy with this clinic and doctor after my original doctor retired
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!
Dr Rivera-Vega did a great job spent adequate time, and was very knowledgeable in all aspects of my neurological health. I am very happy to have her as my neurologist!
Wonderful, caring neurology group with excellent listening skills and proactive modalities. "Dr" Dawn (APRN) is fabulous with botox. Love them.
Dr. Lee is very personable, professional, and knowledgeable. She is not rushed and spends all the necessary time with you during the visit, answering all questions, I highly recommend a Dr. Lee.
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 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.
Dr. Rivera Vega was extremely caring, she listened to me, she read my records and discussed the plan with me. Very thorough exam and excellent care!
I was able to see Dr. Nelitza Rivera-Vega and the visit was pristine! The front desk staff and nurse were so sweet and helpful. Multiple Sclerosis can be such a scary illness but Dr. Rivera-Vega was so thorough during the entire exam. She gathered my entire history with time and patience. Would recommend this office to anyone!
Dr. Rivera Vega is a wonderful, compassionate and kind doctor. She takes her time with each patient. She is very knowledgeable and wants to make sure her patients understand everything that’s going on. I highly recommend her!
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
Dr. Lee is very personable, professional, and knowledgeable. She is not rushed and spends all the necessary time with you during the visit, answering all questions, I highly recommend a Dr. Lee.
Dr Lee is extremely thorough and caring! She always answers all my questions and takes adequate time addressing all of my medical concerns. Great Care!!!
Dr Lee is an excellent doctor that has provided me with expert care. I suffer from acute neuropathy and she was able to provide treatment and found part of my pain was actually coming from my lower back. After having my back treated the pain has been significantly reduced. I'm so glad and fortunate to have found such a great neurologist
Dr Lee is kind, thorough in her exam, and explains diseases and treatments in an easy way to understand. She is a very likable and knowledgeable doctor. The clinic is well ran and the front desk staff were genuinely nice not only to me but to the other patients as well. I am so happy with this clinic and doctor after my original doctor retired
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!
Dr Rivera-Vega did a great job spent adequate time, and was very knowledgeable in all aspects of my neurological health. I am very happy to have her as my neurologist!
Wonderful, caring neurology group with excellent listening skills and proactive modalities. "Dr" Dawn (APRN) is fabulous with botox. Love them.
Dr. Lee is very personable, professional, and knowledgeable. She is not rushed and spends all the necessary time with you during the visit, answering all questions, I highly recommend a Dr. Lee.
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.