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Infliximab

This form:

Pronounced

"in-FLICKS-ih-mab"

Common brand names:

Remicade

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, which slows or stops the damage from the disease.

This monograph is about the following infliximab products: infliximab, infliximab-abda, infliximab-axxq, and infliximab-dyyb.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using infliximab and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is given by injection into a vein over at least 2 hours as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment. After the first dose, this medication is usually given again after 2 weeks and 6 weeks, then every 8 weeks (or every 6 weeks for arthritis of the spine), as directed by your doctor.

Infusion reactions may happen during the infusion of this drug. Your doctor may prescribe other medications before each treatment to help prevent these side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of infusion reactions such as pain/swelling at the injection site, shortness of breath, flushing, chills, fever, or headache. Your doctor may give you other medications to help with these side effects or may slow down or stop your treatment for some time.

If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Do not shake this medication. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. 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 the days on the calendar when you need to receive the medication.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.