Rituximab (Intravitreal) is a powerful immunomodulator medicine injected directly into the eye to treat a specific type of eye cancer called primary vitreoretinal lymphoma.
| Drug class | Antimetabolite (Intravitreal) |
|---|---|
| Type | Single |
| Forms | Intravitreal Injection |
| Common strength | 1 mg |
| Prescription status | Prescription (hospital use) |
What Rituximab (Intravitreal) is used for
Rituximab (Intravitreal) is a specialised medicine used to treat a serious eye condition. It is specifically prescribed for:
- Primary vitreoretinal lymphoma
Primary vitreoretinal lymphoma is a rare form of cancer that affects the eye, specifically the vitreous (the clear gel that fills the space between the lens and the retina) and the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye). This condition requires highly specialised treatment, and Rituximab (Intravitreal) is one of the medicines used in its management. The goal of treatment is to target the cancerous cells within the eye and help improve the patient’s condition.
How it works
Rituximab (Intravitreal) is an immunomodulator medicine, specifically an anti-CD20 antibody. When injected directly into the eye, it works by targeting specific cells that are involved in ocular lymphoma. The medicine helps to reduce the number of these abnormal cells, thereby treating the lymphoma within the eye. This targeted approach helps to deliver the medicine directly to the site of the problem, which is crucial for conditions affecting the eye.
How it’s used
Rituximab (Intravitreal) is given as an injection directly into the eye. This procedure is always performed by a specialist doctor in a hospital or clinic setting. It is never for self-use. The exact dosing and frequency of these injections will be determined by your oncology specialist, following a specific treatment plan or protocol tailored to your condition. Your doctor will explain the schedule and what to expect during the treatment course. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor your progress and ensure the treatment is working effectively.
Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.
Brands in India
Hospital-prepared or not marketed as a retail brand in India.
Please note
Powerful medicine that suppresses the immune system. Screening for tuberculosis and hepatitis is usually required before starting, and it raises the risk of infection. Used only under specialist supervision with regular monitoring. This is given only by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use.
Precautions & side effects
Rituximab (Intravitreal) is a powerful medicine that requires careful consideration and monitoring. Here are some important precautions:
- Specialist Supervision: This medicine is only used under the strict supervision of an ophthalmology specialist and an oncology specialist due to its potent nature and the specific conditions it treats.
- Immune System Suppression: Rituximab is a powerful medicine that suppresses the immune system. This means it can increase your risk of infections.
- Screening: Before starting treatment, you will usually need to undergo screening tests for tuberculosis and hepatitis to ensure it is safe for you to receive this medicine.
- Route-Specific Entry: As it is injected directly into the eye, it requires a specific clinical setting and expertise to administer safely.
- Ocular Oncology Use: Its use is specifically for ocular oncology conditions, meaning eye cancers, and is not for general eye conditions.
- Hospital Use Only: This medicine is given only by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use.
- Monitoring: Regular monitoring by your doctor is crucial throughout the treatment period to check for any side effects or complications and to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
Always discuss any concerns or questions you have with your doctor or the medical team. They are there to guide you through your treatment journey.
Understanding Primary Vitreoretinal Lymphoma
Primary vitreoretinal lymphoma is a rare form of cancer that affects the eye. It involves the vitreous, which is the clear, jelly-like substance that fills the middle of your eye, and the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye that sends images to your brain. Symptoms can vary but might include blurry vision, floaters (small spots or lines that seem to drift across your vision), or a decrease in vision. Because these symptoms can be similar to other, less serious eye conditions, it’s very important to have any persistent changes in your vision checked by an eye specialist. Early and accurate diagnosis is key to managing this condition effectively. Treatment for primary vitreoretinal lymphoma is highly specialised and often involves a team of doctors, including ophthalmologists (eye specialists) and oncologists (cancer specialists). The goal of treatment is to control the cancer within the eye and preserve vision as much as possible. Rituximab (Intravitreal) is one of the medicines used in this complex treatment plan, specifically designed to target the cancerous cells within the eye.
General Advice for Eye Medicine Use and Hygiene
While Rituximab (Intravitreal) is administered by a specialist, maintaining good eye hygiene and understanding general principles of eye care are always important, especially when dealing with a serious eye condition. Always follow your doctor’s instructions meticulously for any other eye drops or medicines you might be prescribed. When using any eye drops at home, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after application. Avoid touching the tip of the dropper bottle to your eye or any other surface to prevent contamination. If you are using more than one type of eye drop, wait at least 5-10 minutes between different drops to allow each medicine to be absorbed properly. Store all eye medicines as directed by your pharmacist or doctor, usually in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Never share your eye medicines with anyone else, as this can spread infection or cause harm. If you wear contact lenses, your doctor will advise you on when and if it is safe to wear them during your treatment period.
When to Seek Medical Help
During your treatment with Rituximab (Intravitreal) and for any eye condition, it is crucial to be aware of when to seek immediate medical attention. While your specialist team will monitor you closely, you should contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital if you experience any sudden or severe changes in your vision, such as a sudden loss of vision, flashes of light, or a significant increase in floaters. Also, report any signs of infection, such as increased redness, pain, swelling around the eye, or discharge from the eye. Fever, chills, or any general feeling of being unwell should also be reported, especially given that Rituximab can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of infection. Do not hesitate to discuss any new or worsening symptoms, side effects, or concerns you have with your medical team. They are your best resource for guidance and support throughout your treatment journey. Regular follow-up appointments are vital to monitor your progress and address any potential issues promptly.
Frequently asked questions
What is Rituximab (Intravitreal) used for?
Rituximab (Intravitreal) is a powerful medicine used to treat a specific type of eye cancer called primary vitreoretinal lymphoma.
How does Rituximab (Intravitreal) work?
Rituximab (Intravitreal) is an anti-CD20 antibody. It works by being injected directly into the eye to target and reduce abnormal cells involved in ocular lymphoma, helping to treat the cancer within the eye.
What are the common Indian brands of Rituximab (Intravitreal)?
Rituximab (Intravitreal) is typically prepared within the hospital pharmacy for individual patient use and is not available under specific retail brand names in India.
How is Rituximab (Intravitreal) administered?
Rituximab (Intravitreal) is given as an injection directly into the eye. This procedure is always performed by a specialist doctor in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use. The dosing is determined by your oncology specialist.
Is a prescription needed for Rituximab (Intravitreal)?
Yes, Rituximab (Intravitreal) is a prescription-only medicine and is used exclusively in a hospital setting under specialist supervision.
What are the key precautions to be aware of with Rituximab (Intravitreal)?
Rituximab (Intravitreal) is a powerful medicine that suppresses the immune system, increasing the risk of infection. Screening for tuberculosis and hepatitis is usually required before starting treatment. It is used only under specialist supervision with regular monitoring and is never for self-use.
References
- Use of intravitreal rituximab for treatment of vitreoretinal lymphoma – PubMed
- Rituximab Injections for Lymphoma – American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Eye health – MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine)
- Learn about eye health – National Eye Institute (NIH)
- Blindness and vision impairment – World Health Organization
Medically reviewed by Dr. C Jagadesh Reddy, Chief Surgeon: Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery — last reviewed 2026-07-28.
This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist before starting, changing or stopping any eye medicine.