GENERIC NAME: INFLIXIMAB - INJECTION (in-FLICKS-ih-mab)

BRAND NAME(S): Remicade

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: Infliximab decreases immune system function (immunosuppression), which can result in serious infections (e.g., tuberculosis or fungal infections), or a worsening of an existing infection. Before starting treatment with infliximab, you should have a TB skin test done to check for tuberculosis that may not be causing any symptoms (latent TB). If you are diagnosed with TB, anti-tuberculosis medicines must be started before you start infliximab therapy. This will prevent a serious TB infection. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection while using this drug, such as: fever, persistent sore throat, unusual vaginal discharge, painful or frequent urination.

USES: Infliximab inhibits a protein called TNF. This action results in decreased swelling (inflammation) and decreased immune system function (immunosuppression). Infliximab is effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis and certain bowel diseases (Crohn's disease), since swelling and an overactive immune system likely play a role in these diseases.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by vein (IV) over at least 2 hours. Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluids. Consult your pharmacist. This medication should be checked visually for particles or discoloration before use. The liquid should be colorless to light yellow and translucent particles may be present (this is normal). Do not use the liquid if whitish/opaque particles or discoloration are present.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea or pain at the injection site may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Report promptly: signs of infection (e.g., persistent sore throat, fever), chills, severe headache, chest pain, cough, extreme fatigue, stomach pain, unusual vaginal discharge, white patches in the mouth (fungal infection). Unlikely but report promptly: diarrhea, joint/muscle pain, mental/mood changes, vision changes, unexplained muscle weakness, numbness/tingling, changes in skin appearance, painful urination, increased urgency/frequency of urination, unusual bruising or bleeding, sudden weight gain. Very unlikely but report promptly: fast or irregular pulse, unusual lumps/growths, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, swollen glands. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this medication, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

Rheumatoid Arthritis - Learn more about rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that causes chronic joint inflammation, which has symptoms that include stiffness, fever, muscle and joint aches, loss of appetite, and fatigue. Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis incorporates the use of first-line drugs (aspirin and corticosteroids for pain and inflammation) and second-line drugs (methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine to prevent joint destruction and promote remission). Source:MedicineNet Tuberculosis Skin Test (PPD Skin Test) - The tuberculosis skin test (also known as the tuberculin or PPD test) determines whether a person has developed an immune response to the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB). Learn how the test is administered, how a reading is obtained, and how the results are interpreted. Source:MedicineNet Crohn's Disease - Learn about Crohn's Disease and the causes, symptoms (including abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, fever, rectal bleeding, and more) and treatment of this chronic inflammatory disease of the intestines. Source:MedicineNet Read 67 more infliximab related articles ... FDA Starts Safety Review of Autoimmune Disorder Drugs FDA Panel Recommends Enbrel for Pediatric Patients Aggressive Therapy for Crohn's Disease Produces Better Outcomes Drug Combos Effective Against Rheumatoid Arthritis Health Tip: Controlling Crohn's Disease Severe Psoriasis May Up Risk of Death Treating RA: Single Drug vs. Combo