Infliximab: A Comprehensive Medication Guide

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Remicade (Infliximab)

Pharmacologic category

Infliximab falls under the category of Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) inhibitors. Other medications in this category include Adalimumab (Humira), Etanercept (Enbrel), Certolizumab pegol (Cimzia), and Golimumab (Simponi).

Dosing

Infliximab is used to treat various conditions, and the dosing can vary depending on the specific disease. Remember, you should never adjust the dose of your medication without speaking with your doctor first. Here are the general dosing guidelines for Infliximab for various conditions:

Rheumatoid Arthritis

The usual dose for Rheumatoid Arthritis is 3 mg/kg administered as an intravenous infusion followed by additional similar doses at two and six weeks after the first infusion, then every eight weeks thereafter.

Psoriatic Arthritis

The standard dose for Psoriatic Arthritis is 5 mg/kg given as an intravenous infusion at week 0, week 2, week 6, and then every 8 weeks thereafter.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

For Ankylosing Spondylitis, the typical dose is 5 mg/kg administered as an intravenous infusion at weeks 0, 2, 6 and then every six weeks thereafter.

Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Fistulizing Crohn’s Disease

For these conditions, the usual dose is 5 mg/kg at weeks 0, 2, 6 and then every eight weeks thereafter.

Plaque Psoriasis

For Plaque Psoriasis, the recommended dose is 5 mg/kg at weeks 0, 2, 6 and then every eight weeks thereafter.

Pediatric Crohn’s Disease

For Pediatric Crohn’s Disease, the typical dose is 5 mg/kg at weeks 0, 2, 6 and then every eight weeks thereafter.

Behçet’s Disease

For Behçet’s Disease, the typical dose is 5 mg/kg at weeks 0, 2, 6 and then every eight weeks thereafter.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Infliximab is available as a powder for solution for injection. It comes in vials containing 100 mg of Infliximab.

Administration Instructions

Infliximab is given by intravenous infusion, typically over a period of 2 hours. It is administered in a healthcare setting under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

While Infliximab can provide significant benefits, it can also cause side effects. The frequency of these side effects can range from very common to rare.

Infections (Common)

Infliximab works by suppressing the immune system, which can increase the risk of infections. These can range from minor infections like the common cold to serious infections like tuberculosis.

Allergic Reactions (Common)

Allergic reactions to infliximab can occur. Symptoms may include rash, fever, or difficulty breathing. Infliximab can also cause a delayed hypersensitivity reaction, which may occur several days after receiving an infusion.

Liver Damage (Rare)

Infliximab can cause liver damage, which can result in symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen. The medication can affect liver function, leading to these symptoms.

Heart Failure (Rare)

Infliximab can worsen or cause new heart failure, particularly in individuals who already have this condition or are at high risk. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, swelling of your ankles or feet, or sudden weight gain.

Contraindications to taking Infliximab

Contraindication means a situation where a drug should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. Here are some situations where Infliximab is contraindicated:

Active Serious Infections

Infliximab can weaken the immune system, so it’s not recommended for people with serious infections. These could include tuberculosis, sepsis, abscesses, or opportunistic infections.

History of Heart Failure

Individuals with moderate to severe heart failure should not take infliximab. The drug can worsen this condition, leading to further complications.

Hypersensitivity to Infliximab or its Components

If a patient has had a severe allergic reaction to infliximab or any of its components, the drug should not be used. This could lead to a potentially severe allergic reaction.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Certain medications can interact with Infliximab, changing how it works or increasing the risk for serious side effects. These include:
Methotrexate (Rheumatrex, Trexall) Anakinra (Kineret) Abatacept (Orencia) Tocilizumab (Actemra) Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune) Warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven)

Infliximab in Pregnancy

Infliximab should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. It’s important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider.

Infliximab while Breastfeeding

It’s not known whether infliximab passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while receiving this medication.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The cost of a 30-day supply of Infliximab can vary greatly depending on the dosage and frequency of the infusions. However, without insurance, the cost could be upwards of $2000 per infusion. Remember, these prices are only estimates and can vary depending on your pharmacy and location. Always check with your pharmacy for the most accurate pricing.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.