Minimal change disease and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in adults: rituximab

About rituximab

Rituximab is licensed for treating various conditions in adults (aged 18 years and over). These include non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, rheumatoid arthritis, and granulomatosis with polyangiitis or microscopic polyangiitis.

Rituximab is given by a drip (also known as an infusion) into a vein. This is usually done in hospital by a doctor or nurse who has experience in using the treatment. Usually only 1 course of treatment is needed, although sometimes repeat courses are given, and sometimes rituximab is used with steroids or other medicines.

Rituximab is not licensed for treating minimal change disease or focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in adults and so using it for these conditions is 'off-label'.