Doctor says my day 1 infusion of Treanda will take six hours, then day 2, Rituxan is only 2 hours. How long did/does your infusion take? Six hours sounds really long.
I agree with everyone that they start slowly to make sure you are tolerating the drug well; lots of blood pressure checks.
The nurses at my clinic are the most amazing people. They never want to hurt you. When I was scared to death, they all told me what they were doing, and why, every step of the way.
When I started this process, I opted not to have a port installed, so the first time was more difficult. Again, after learning more, I did get a port installed. I wrote in my blog that whoever invented the port, should have won a Nobel prize. Anyway, lesson learned.
At my clinic, they have drinks (I asked for wine - ha), snacks and cozy warm blankets. I did bring a book and my Ipad.
I'm thankful and lucky that I didn't have many side effects from chemo and immunotherapy. They gave me benedryl and steroids. When I came home, I showered, ate, and slept for about three hours because I was drugged. The steroids interfered with sleep the first night after chemo.
Sorry this is a bit long-winded, but I hope you have a good experience for a crappy event.
I'm doing the Rituxan belly shot for two years of maintenance to hopefully stay in remission for a long time. The six minute shot is a breeze compared to hours of infusion, don't you think ?
Cassandra - I have Follicular Lymphoma (now in remission-yay). My chemo was six and a half hours. Then the next day I would have to go in for spinal chemo. Followed by 24 hrs. flat on my back. It was tough. I was staged at 4. It was everywhere. BUT four months of hell put me in remission so it was worth it. I know it is incurable and will be back but Iām sure enjoying everyday right now! ššš
Depends how fast it can be poured in. I was allergic to Rituxan/Rituximaub
So on average my chemo took 8 hours on "slow drip"