Drug
Infliximab
Pronounced
"in-FLIX-i-mab"
Uses
This medication is used to treat certain bowel diseases (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis). Some brands may also be used to treat a certain type of arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis). 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, which slows or stops the damage from the disease.
This monograph is about the following infliximab products: infliximab, infliximab-dyyb.
Warning
This medication can decrease your body's ability to fight an infection. This effect can lead to very serious (possibly fatal) infections (such as fungal infections, bacterial infections including tuberculosis). You should have tuberculosis (TB) skin tests before and during treatment with 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 (such as 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 infection symptoms to watch out for, and get medical help right away if you have any of these symptoms.
The immune system also helps prevent and control cancer. There is a very small risk (especially in children/teens/young adults) of developing cancer (such as lymphoma, skin cancer) due to this medication or due to your medical condition. A rare, mostly fatal cancer (hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma) has occurred in people receiving this medication along with certain other drugs (azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine) to treat Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of treatment. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms such as unusual lumps/growths, swollen glands, swollen or painful abdomen, unexplained weight loss, unusual tiredness, loss of appetite, fever that doesn't go away, or night sweats.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using infliximab and each time you get a refill. Ask your health care professional how to prepare and use this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication is given by injection under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once every 2 weeks. The injection is given in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Take the medication out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before you inject it to allow it to reach room temperature. Do not warm up this medication any other way (for example, do not heat it in the microwave or place it in hot water). Do not shake the medication. Before using, check this product for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. Do not inject into skin that is tender, damaged, bruised, or scarred. To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a reminder.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.