Brand Name(s): Remicade
Generic Name Infliximab
What does infliximab injection do?
INFLIXIMAB (Remicade®) is used to help relieve the symptoms of Crohn's disease, psoriasis, or rheumatoid arthritis. It may take two to four weeks from the time of the initial injection before the full benefit of infliximab is seen. Generic infliximab injections are not yet available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•currently receiving vaccinations
•depressed immune function or other immune disorders
•diabetes mellitus
•exposure to tuberculosis
•heart failure
•hepatitis or liver disease
•infection
•multiple sclerosis
•seizure disorder
•an unusual or allergic reaction to infliximab, mouse proteins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Infliximab is for injection into a vein. It is given as an infusion over at least 2 hours by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
What if I miss a dose?
It is important to receive infliximab on the schedule developed by your health care provider. If you cannot make an appointment to receive your infusion, contact your provider to reschedule as soon as possible.
What drug(s) may interact with infliximab?
•anakinra
•vaccines
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from receiving infliximab?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
•any signs or symptoms of an infection or cold including a cough, running nose, or sore throat
•any signs or symptoms of bleeding including unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, blood in the urine or stool, or coughing up blood
•chest pain
•difficulty breathing
•fever or chills, usually related to the infusion
•muscle or joint pain
•skin rash or hives
•shortness of breath
•thrush
•yellowing of the skin or eyes
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•back pain
•depression
•difficulty sleeping
•dizziness
•headache
•heartburn
•nausea and vomiting
•stomach pain
•tiredness
What should I watch for while taking infliximab?
Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress.
If you get a cold or other infection while receiving infliximab, call your prescriber or health care professional. Do not treat yourself. Infliximab may decrease your body's ability to fight infections. Before beginning infliximab therapy, your prescriber may do a test to see if you have been exposed to tuberculosis.
Infliximab may worsen the symptoms of heart failure in some patients. If you notice symptoms such as increased shortness of breath or swelling of the ankles or legs, contact your health care provider immediately.
If you are going to have surgery or dental work, tell your health care professional or dentist that you have received infliximab.
Where can I keep my medicine?
You will receive infliximab in a clinic setting. You will not take this medication at home.
| Available at: www.DrugDigest.org | Last Updated:01/12/2005 |
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