Infliximab (Injection)

Infliximab (in-FLIX-i-mab)

Treats rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease.

Brand Name(s):

Remicade
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to infliximab or murine proteins, or if you have a serious infection or a history of congestive heart failure.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It may also be given by a home health caregiver.
• This medicine needs to be given slowly, so the needle will need to remain in place for at least 2 hours.

If a dose is missed:

• Call your doctor, pharmacist, or home health caregiver for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you store this medicine at home, keep it in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. After the medicine has been mixed with water, use it right away. Do not store any unused mixture.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using methotrexate, azathioprine (Imuran®), mercaptopurine (Purinethol®), or other medicines that can weaken your immune system.
• Tell your doctor if you have received infliximab before.
• Talk to your doctor before getting flu shots or other vaccines while you are receiving infliximab. Vaccines may not work as well while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have an infection of any kind, multiple sclerosis or similar illness, or a history of recurring infections or tuberculosis.
• Avoid people who are sick or have infections.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
• Cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath
• Fever, chills, or night sweats
• Headache or sinus pain
• Joint redness, pain, or swelling, unusual skin rash
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Pain when urinating or blood in your urine
• Sore throat, muscle aches, swelling in your hands or face

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild headache
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain
• Redness, pain, or swelling where the IV is given
• Tiredness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.