Table 2

Adverse events reported during the first and second rituximab or placebo infusions in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

First infusion

Second infusion

Adverse event

Placebo

Rituximab (1000 mg)

Placebo

Rituximab (1000 mg)

Any adverse event

30

36

15

17

Transient hypotension

20

13

10

12

Transient hypertension

10

9

5

3

Flushing

-

4

-

1

Pruritus

-

6

-

-

Rash

-

4

-

-

Dyspnoea

-

3

-

-

Pharynx discomfort

-

3

-

-

Pyrexia

-

3

-

-

Headache

-

2

-

-

Hypotension/hypertension were defined as an increase/decrease in systolic or diastolic pressure of more than 30 mmHg. Values are expressed as percentages. Data from Szczepański and coworkers [23].

Hainsworth Arthritis Res Ther 2003 5(Suppl 4):S12   doi:10.1186/ar1008