INFLIXIMAB - INJECTION (Remicade) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

INFLIXIMAB-INJECTION Index

infliximab - injection, Remicade

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

BRAND NAME(S): Remicade

WARNING: This medication can decrease your body's ability to fight an infection. This effect can lead to very serious (possibly fatal) infections (e.g., fungal infections, tuberculosis). You should have a tuberculosis (TB) skin test before starting this medication. Also tell your doctor your medical history, especially of past/recent/current infections. You should also tell your doctor if you have lived or traveled in areas where certain fungal infections (e.g., coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis) are common or if you have been near someone with tuberculosis. Areas where these types of fungal infections are commonly found include the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys and the southwestern United States. See Side Effects section for symptoms of infections to watch out for, and seek immediate medical attention if you develop any of these symptoms.

The immune system is also important in preventing and controlling cancer. Though it is very unlikely to happen, there is a risk (especially in children/teens/young adults) of developing cancer (such as lymphoma, skin) due to this medication or due to your medical condition. Discuss risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms such as: unusual lumps/growths, swollen glands, swollen or painful abdomen, unexplained weight loss, persistent fever or night sweats.

In patients using infliximab along with azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine for the treatment of Crohn's disease, there have been rare reports of an extremely rare, often fatal cancer (hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma). Tell your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms such as fever, night sweats, unusual tiredness, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, or swollen lymph nodes.

See also Side Effects.

USES: This medication is used to treat certain types of arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis of the spine, psoriatic arthritis), certain bowel diseases (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), and a certain severe skin disease (chronic plaque psoriasis). In these conditions, the body's defense system (immune system) attacks healthy tissues. Infliximab works by blocking the actions of a certain natural substance (tumor necrosis factor alpha) in the body. This helps to decrease swelling (inflammation) and weaken your immune system, thereby slowing or stopping the damage from the disease.