WARNING

Taking Infliximab Injection carries certain risks that should be considered and monitored closely by healthcare providers. These risks include:

• Infections: Infliximab suppresses the immune system, increasing the risk of infections such as tuberculosis (TB), bacterial infections, fungal infections, and viral infections. Serious infections can sometimes be life-threatening.
• Infusion Reactions: Infliximab infusions can cause infusion reactions, which may include fever, chills, itching, rash, headache, dizziness, and shortness of breath. These reactions can range from mild to severe.
• Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions to Infliximab, though rare, can occur. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and severe itching.
• Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation: For individuals with previous hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, there is a risk of HBV reactivation, potentially leading to liver problems.
• Heart Failure: Infliximab may worsen pre-existing heart failure or lead to new onset heart failure in some patients.
• Malignancies: There is a potential increased risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma, with the use of Infliximab.
• Neurological Disorders: Rarely, Infliximab has been associated with central nervous system disorders such as multiple sclerosis-like demyelinating diseases.
• Blood Disorders: Infliximab can affect blood cells, potentially causing low white blood cell count (neutropenia) or low platelet count (thrombocytopenia).
• Other Side Effects: Common side effects may include upper respiratory tract infections, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and skin reactions.

Patients taking Infliximab should be monitored closely by healthcare providers for signs of infections, infusion reactions, allergic reactions, and other potential side effects. Regular follow-up visits and appropriate laboratory testing are essential to manage these risks and ensure the medication’s safe and effective use in treating autoimmune conditions.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Infliximab is a medication that is prescribed primarily for the treatment of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and plaque psoriasis. It is particularly effective in conditions where there is an overactive immune response causing inflammation in the body.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Infliximab is used when other treatments for rheumatoid arthritis have not been effective.
• Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis: These are inflammatory bowel diseases where Infliximab can help reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
• Psoriatic Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis: These are inflammatory joint diseases where Infliximab can reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling.
• Plaque Psoriasis: Infliximab can help reduce the symptoms of severe plaque psoriasis by suppressing the immune response that causes skin inflammation.

How should this medicine be used?

Infliximab is typically administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion. Here are the general guidelines:

• Dosage: The dosage depends on the condition being treated and is determined by your healthcare provider. It is usually given at specific intervals after an initial loading dose.
• Administration: Infliximab is administered by a healthcare professional in a medical setting such as a hospital or clinic. The infusion may take a few hours, and you may be monitored during and after the infusion.
• Frequency: After the initial dose, which may include a series of infusions, maintenance doses are given at regular intervals. The exact schedule varies depending on the condition being treated and your response to the medication.
• Follow-up: Regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider are necessary to monitor your response to Infliximab and to adjust the treatment plan as needed.
• Precautions: Infliximab can lower your ability to fight infections and may increase the risk of certain types of cancer. It’s important to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider before and during treatment.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the use of Infliximab and do not adjust the dosage or frequency without consulting them first.

Other uses for this medicine

• Behçet’s Disease: Infliximab may be used in some cases to treat symptoms of Behçet’s disease, a rare autoimmune condition that causes inflammation throughout the body.
• Uveitis: In some instances, Infliximab may be used to treat uveitis, which is inflammation of the middle layer of the eye (uvea).
• Sarcoidosis: Infliximab may be considered for treating refractory cases of sarcoidosis, a condition characterized by the growth of tiny collections of inflammatory cells in different parts of the body.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Infliximab, it is essential to follow specific precautions to ensure safe and effective treatment:

• Infections: Infliximab can increase the risk of serious infections, including tuberculosis (TB), bacterial infections, fungal infections, and others. Before starting treatment, your healthcare provider will likely test you for infections, including TB, and may recommend vaccinations to reduce the risk of certain infections.
• Malignancies: There is a potential increased risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma, with the use of Infliximab. This risk should be considered and monitored by your healthcare provider during treatment.
• Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation: Infliximab can lead to reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in patients who have had previous HBV infection. Screening for HBV before starting treatment is important, and antiviral therapy may be necessary to prevent reactivation.
• Heart Failure: Infliximab may worsen heart failure in some patients. It should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.
• Allergic Reactions: Infliximab infusions can sometimes cause allergic reactions or infusion reactions. These can range from mild to severe and may include symptoms such as fever, chills, rash, itching, shortness of breath, or low blood pressure. Healthcare providers are prepared to manage these reactions during treatment.
• Live Vaccines: Because Infliximab suppresses the immune system, live vaccines should generally be avoided during treatment. Discuss vaccination schedules with your healthcare provider.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring is essential during treatment with Infliximab to assess its effectiveness and detect any potential side effects early.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Infliximab during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and the benefits outweigh the risks. Consult with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and inform them of any other medications or supplements you are taking before starting Infliximab. This helps ensure safe and effective treatment tailored to your specific health needs.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Infliximab injection. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is important for overall health and may support your immune system. If you have specific dietary concerns or conditions (e.g., if you have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), discuss them with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian who can provide personalized guidance.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Contact Your Healthcare Provider: Notify your healthcare provider’s office as soon as possible to reschedule your infusion appointment.
• Avoid Double Dosing: Do not try to make up for the missed dose by taking extra or double doses of Infliximab on your own.
• Follow-Up: Your healthcare provider will advise you on the best course of action based on how long it has been since your last dose and your treatment schedule.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Infliximab injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. Some common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Infusion Reactions: Symptoms may include fever, chills, itching, rash, headache, dizziness, and shortness of breath during or shortly after the infusion.
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: Such as sinus infections and sore throat.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches are reported by some patients.
• Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach can occur.
• Abdominal Pain: Some patients experience discomfort or pain in the abdomen.
• Skin Reactions: Including rash, itching, and redness at the injection site or elsewhere on the body.

Serious Side Effects:

• Infections: Infliximab can increase the risk of serious infections such as tuberculosis (TB), bacterial infections, fungal infections, and viral infections. Signs of infection may include fever, fatigue, cough, or painful urination.
• Hepatitis B Reactivation: For individuals who carry the hepatitis B virus, there is a risk of reactivation, potentially leading to liver problems.
• Heart Failure: Infliximab may worsen pre-existing heart failure or lead to new onset heart failure in some patients.
• Blood Disorders: Rarely, Infliximab can cause blood disorders such as low white blood cell count (neutropenia) or low platelet count (thrombocytopenia).
• Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions can occur, though they are rare. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and severe itching.
• Neurological Disorders: Infliximab has been associated with rare cases of central nervous system disorders such as multiple sclerosis-like demyelinating diseases.
• Malignancies: There is a potential increased risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma, with the use of Infliximab.

Other Considerations:

• Liver Function: Infliximab can affect liver function, so regular monitoring of liver enzymes may be necessary.
• Immunosuppression: Because Infliximab suppresses the immune system, there may be an increased risk of infections and other immune-related complications.

It’s essential to discuss any concerns about potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting Infliximab treatment. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and the specific condition being treated. Promptly report any unusual symptoms or side effects during treatment to your healthcare provider for evaluation and management.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Infliximab Injection:

Storage:

• Infliximab injections should be stored in a refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
• Protect the medication from light by keeping it in the original carton until ready for use.
• Do not freeze Infliximab.

Disposal:

• Unused or expired Infliximab should be disposed of properly. Check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for instructions on how to safely dispose of unused medications.
• Do not dispose of Infliximab in household trash unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Contact your healthcare provider, local emergency services (911 in the US), or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of an overdose may include severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), severe infections, or severe infusion reactions.
• Treatment: Treatment will depend on the symptoms presented. Medical professionals will provide supportive care and manage symptoms as appropriate.

What other information should I know?

• Monitoring: During treatment with Infliximab, your healthcare provider will monitor you closely for any signs of infection, infusion reactions, or other side effects. Regular check-ups and blood tests may be necessary.
• Vaccinations: Discuss with your healthcare provider which vaccinations are safe to receive while on Infliximab, as some live vaccines are generally not recommended.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Infliximab during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established, and the benefits and risks should be carefully considered.
• Travel: If you plan to travel, ensure you have enough Infliximab for your entire trip. Store the medication properly during travel, especially if refrigeration is required.
• Medical Alert: Carry a medical alert card or wear a medical alert bracelet to inform healthcare providers about your Infliximab treatment in case of emergencies.
• Adherence: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding the timing and frequency of Infliximab injections to ensure the medication is effective for managing your condition.
• Consultation: Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about Infliximab or its administration.

By understanding these aspects of Infliximab treatment, you can help ensure its safe and effective use in managing your autoimmune condition. Regular communication with your healthcare provider is key to managing your health effectively while on this medication.