The FDA's Approval of Gazyva for Follicular Lymphoma
Common side effects of both medications
Aside from mild side-effects, both medications can cause serious infusion reactions. One of these is anaphylaxis.
The protocol for anti-cancer drugs calls for the administration of medications prior to or during treatment to help ward off an infusion reaction. These may include steroids, Tylenol, and an antihistamine such as diphenhydramine, commonly known as Benadryl.
If hives occur, they may herald a rapid advancement to a life-threatening condition known as anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis can quickly lead to swelling and closure of the airways, creating an urgent need for medical intervention.
Other similarities shared by the two drugs in review is that each may be given alone as maintenance therapy after remission is obtained.
Despite their similarities, Gazyva has been found to be more effective that Rituxan, per the recent study noted previously.
