Infliximab

 
Generic Name: infliximab

Brands: Remicade

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What is the most important information I should know about Infliximab?

· Serious, even fatal, infections have been reported to occur during treatment with Infliximab. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection such as fever or chills; sore throat, coughing, congestion or other signs of infection; redness, pain, or swelling of a skin wound; or burning or difficult urination.

· Treatment with an immunosuppressant such as Infliximab may increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer (e.g., lymphoma). Treatment with Infliximab may also increase the risk of developing an autoimmune disorder such as a lupus-like syndrome. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medication.

 

What is Infliximab?

· Infliximab reduces the effects of a substance in the body called tumor necrosis factor alpha. Tumor necrosis factor alpha is involved in inflammatory processes in the body.

· Infliximab is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease.

· Infliximab may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.

 

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Infliximab?

· Do not use Infliximab without first talking to your doctor if you have     ·an active infection or a history of recurrent infections; or     ·congestive heart failure.

· Before using Infliximab, tell your doctor if you have     ·kidney disease;     ·liver disease;     ·cancer; or     ·an autoimmune disorder such as lupus.

· You may not be able to use Infliximab, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

· Infliximab is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use Infliximab without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

· It is not known whether Infliximab passes into breast milk. Do not use Infliximab without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

 

How should I use Infliximab?

· Since Infliximab is given by intravenous infusion, in most cases it will be administered by a healthcare professional. If Infliximab is being administered at home, special training will be provided regarding administration. Do not administer Infliximab if you are unsure how to properly do so, how much to administer, or how often to administer the medication. Call your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to go over the instructions with you.

· Your doctor may perform tests for tuberculosis or other infections before starting treatment with Infliximab.

· If you are storing Infliximab at home, it should be kept in the refrigerator (36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit or 2 to 8 degrees Celsius). Do not allow the product to freeze and do not use it beyond the expiration date.

 

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of Infliximab.

 

What happens if I overdose?

· Contact your doctor if an overdose of Infliximab is suspected. An overdose of Infliximab is unlikely to be harmful.

 

What should I avoid while using Infliximab?

· Infliximab can lower the activity of the immune system making you susceptible to infections. Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses and do not receive "live" vaccines during treatment with Infliximab without first talking to your doctor. In addition, avoid contact with individuals who have recently been vaccinated with a live vaccine. There is a chance that the virus can be passed on to you. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection.

 

What are the possible side effects of Infliximab?

· Serious, even fatal, infections have been reported to occur during treatment with Infliximab. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection such as fever or chills; sore throat, coughing, congestion or other signs of infection; redness, pain, or swelling of a skin wound; or burning or difficult urination.

· Treatment with an immunosuppressant such as Infliximab may increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer (e.g., lymphoma). Treatment with Infliximab may also increase the risk of developing an autoimmune disorder such as a lupus-like syndrome. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medication.

· If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using Infliximab and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:     ·an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or     ·chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

· Other less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Contact your doctor if you develop     ·headache;     ·muscle or joint pain;     ·rash or itching;     ·fatigue; or     ·nausea or vomiting.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

 

What other drugs will affect Infliximab?

· Do not receive "live" vaccinations during treatment with Infliximab. Administration of a live vaccine may cause an infection or be ineffective during treatment with Infliximab.

· Other medications may interact with Infliximab or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking other prescription or over-the-counter medications, including herbal products, during treatment with Infliximab.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about Infliximab written for health professionals that you may read.

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