Key takeaways
Rituxan (rituximab) and cyclophosphamide are both used to treat various cancers, but they work differently and have different uses. Rituxan (rituximab) is a monoclonal antibody that targets specific immune cells called B cells, making it a targeted type of therapy called immunotherapy. It is given as an intravenous infusion and is used for blood cancers like non-Hodgkin lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia, as well as autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Cyclophosphamide, on the other hand, is a form of chemotherapy. It's an alkylating agent that damages the DNA of cancer cells, leading to cell death. It can be taken orally or intravenously and is used for a broader range of cancers, including lymphomas, leukemias, and breast cancer, as well as nephrotic syndrome in children. Rituxan (rituximab) infusions can take several hours and may cause serious infusion-related reactions, while cyclophosphamide requires you to stay well-hydrated to prevent bladder and kidney problems. Both medications can weaken your immune system, but cyclophosphamide also has a higher risk of causing secondary cancers and fertility issues.
