What is Infliximab Therapy?
Infliximab is a biologic medicine commonly prescribed for autoimmune and inflammatory conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis. It works by blocking tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a substance in the body that causes inflammation.Because it is a complex protein therapy, infliximab must be delivered through intravenous therapy in a clinical setting, where patients can be monitored closely.
What is The Role of Infusion Therapy in Infliximab Treatment?
Infliximab is administered via infusion therapy, meaning it is slowly introduced into the bloodstream through an IV line. This ensures the medicine is absorbed effectively and delivered at a controlled rate.
A typical infliximab infusion:
- Takes between two and three hours
- Is given in a specialist infusion centre or hospital
- May be repeated every six to eight weeks, depending on the treatment plan
Common Side Effects of Infliximab Infusions
Like many medicines, infliximab can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but patients should be aware of them. Common side effects include:
- Headache or dizziness
- Nausea or stomach discomfort
- Fatigue after treatment
- Mild skin reactions at the infusion site (such as redness or itching)
- Increased susceptibility to colds or minor infections
Serious Side Effects: What to Watch For
Though less common, infliximab can cause more serious side effects. Patients should contact their healthcare team immediately if they experience:
- Shortness of breath or chest pain during the infusion
- Fever, chills, or signs of infection
- Severe rash or allergic reaction
- Unexplained bruising, bleeding, or persistent fatigue
This is why careful monitoring during and after intravenous therapy is essential.
Monitoring During Infliximab Infusion Therapy
Patient safety is the top priority during infliximab treatment. Infusion centres typically follow strict monitoring protocols, including:
- Checking vital signs before, during, and after the infusion
- Watching for signs of allergic or infusion-related reactions
- Adjusting the infusion rate if side effects occur
- Scheduling regular blood tests to monitor immune function and liver health
Ongoing monitoring helps ensure that infliximab remains both safe and effective as a long-term treatment.
Supporting Patients Through Intravenous Therapy
Beyond clinical monitoring, infusion therapy centres often provide a comfortable environment where patients can relax during treatment. Many patients read, listen to music, or work on a laptop while their infusion takes place. Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety and make the process easier.
Infliximab Infusion Therapy: Balancing Risks and Benefits
For many patients, infliximab offers significant relief from pain, inflammation, and other symptoms of autoimmune disease. While side effects are possible, careful monitoring and professional administration of intravenous therapy help ensure treatment remains safe and effective.
Infliximab Infusion Therapy at IV One Infusion Centre
At IV One Infusion Centre, patient safety and comfort come first. If you would like to learn more about infliximab treatment, infusion therapy, or intravenous therapy for autoimmune conditions, get in touch with us today to speak with our specialist team.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is infliximab given through infusion therapy?
Because infliximab is a biologic protein, it cannot be taken orally. Intravenous therapy ensures the medicine reaches the bloodstream directly and remains effective.
2. How long does an infliximab infusion take?
A typical session lasts two to three hours, with additional monitoring before and after treatment.
3. What are the most common side effects of infliximab?
Headache, nausea, fatigue, and mild infusion-site reactions are the most common. Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention.
4. How are patients monitored during infusion therapy?
Vital signs are checked throughout, and staff watch for allergic reactions or changes in blood pressure, heart rate, or breathing.
5. Can infliximab cure autoimmune disease?
No, infliximab does not cure autoimmune conditions, but it can significantly reduce inflammation, control symptoms, and slow disease progression.
