rituximab (MabThera)

Following a full submission

rituximab (MabThera®) is accepted for restricted use within NHS Scotland for the treatment of previously untreated patients with stage III to IV follicular lymphoma in combination with chemotherapy.

Rituximab added to a number of different chemotherapy regimens produced statistically significant improvements in the primary study endpoints when compared with the chemotherapy regimens alone. Rituximab is restricted to use only by haematologists or oncologists who have expertise in treating lymphoma. It should be administered in a healthcare environment where full resuscitation facilities are available.

SMC issued advice in December 2004 regarding the use of rituximab in combination with cyclophosphamide, vincristine and prednisolone (CVP) chemotherapy for the treatment of previously untreated patients with stage III to IV follicular lymphoma. The current advice extends the range of chemotherapy regimens that can be used in combination with rituximab for this indication.