Welcome to Connect, Teri. @tphearts It can be frightening to start a new therapy when you don’t have a clue what to expect. The fact that you’re getting Rituxan means you’ve already gotten a diagnosis that has you overwhelmed, right? We’ll talk more about that in a bit. Right now, let’s get you started on the Rituxan experience.

This infusion usually takes place in an infusion center in a clinic. There are cushy recliner chairs, either in a larger room with separation curtains or a private room.
Yes, for sure your husband can go along with you. Just so you know these infusions, especially the first one, can take several hours. You may find it’s easier if he drops you off and comes back later to get you.
Take along an activity bag with an iPad, phone, books, hand crafts, food, drinks. Anything to keep you content for a couple hours. (Don’t hesitate to take your chargers along too if you need one.) Often the centers will have snacks, juice, coffee and water available too. And there’s usually a television.
The IV’s are also portable so you’ll be able to get up and walk around or use the bathroom while you’re receiving the drip. It’s all pretty comfortable and the IV isn’t painful.

The first visit can take a while because the drip will be administered slowly to avoid a reaction. I just want to alert you to the fact that most people have a mild reaction to the drip. It’s very common. I had one too, with a weird sensation near my throat. The nurse was right there to add benadryl or a steroid product to the IV which stopped the reaction. Then the drip was slowed even more. From my experience and from others who have shared their stories, this is pretty much a one-time event and doesn’t happen with subsequent IVs.
Teri, if you don’t mind my asking, what is the reason for your Rituximab infusions?