Infliximab
Information about Infliximab
Infliximab Uses
Infliximab is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriasis, Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
How Infliximab works
Infliximab is a monoclonal antibody that blocks a protein in immune system called TNF (tumor necrosis factor) that causes inflammation (pain and swelling) in joints.
Common side effects of Infliximab
Headache, Sinus inflammation, Upper respiratory tract infection, Abdominal pain, Nausea, Pharyngitis, Infusion site reaction, Infection, Auto-antibody formation, Anemia (low number of red blood cells)
Expert advice for Infliximab
- Infliximab is injected into a vein (intravenous infusion) under the supervision of a doctor. It is usually administered at 0, 2, 6 weeks and then once every 8 weeks.
- It may take some time before you start to feel better after getting this medicine. However, it is important that you do not miss any dose and show up for your next infusion as per the schedule advised by your doctor.
- Infliximab can make it difficult for your body to fight infections. Inform your doctor if you notice any fever, cough, runny nose, rash, loose stools or flu-like symptoms.
- Inform your doctor if you have ever had tuberculosis or if you have been in close contact with someone who has or had tuberculosis. Your doctor may advise you certain tests to screen for tuberculosis before starting treatment with this medicine.
- Inform your doctor if you have or ever had the hepatitis B virus infection. Your doctor may test you for hepatitis B virus before starting treatment with this medicine.
- You may be advised regular blood tests to monitor blood counts while taking this medication.