Can Rituximab treat kidney disease?

Rituximab (Rituximab) is a human/mouse chimeric monoclonal antibody targeting the CD20 molecule on the surface of pre-B cells and mature B lymphocytes. It can induce B cell apoptosis and reduce the occurrence of autoantibodies. Producing, including anti-phospholipase A2 receptor antibodies, whether rituximab can safely and effectively induce remission of nephrotic syndrome, protect renal function, and delay the progression of chronic kidney disease to end-stage renal disease in patients with membranous nephropathy and renal insufficiency remains unclear.

One study showed that 20% of patients achieved a complete or partial response 6 months after rituximab treatment and the patients' clinical symptoms improved after 6 months of treatment. Therefore, when treating renal insufficiency in membranous nephropathy, rituximab may be an effective treatment method to reduce proteinuria and maintain stable renal function. Anti-PLA2R antibodies can be used as markers to optimize individualized use of rituximab.

Rituximab has been launched in China and has entered the scope of Class B medical insurance. The use of rituximab must be carried out by doctors and medical staff. It is a strictly controlled drug and its purchase and use may be restricted. SpecificationsThe price of each box of 500mg/500mL may be around RMB 8,000, which is relatively expensive. Rituximab has also been launched overseas. The price of the original Indian version of 500mg/500mL per box may be around RMB 3,000 (the price may fluctuate due to exchange rates) . There are also generic rituximab drugs produced by other pharmaceutical companies in India. The price of 500mg/500mL per box may be around 1,500 yuan (the price may fluctuate due to exchange rates). Its drug ingredients are basically the same as those of domestic and foreign original drugs.