Remicade (Infliximab)

What is Remicade?

Remicade is known as a “chimeric monoclonal antibody” (the term “chimeric” refers to the use of both mouse (murine) and human components of the drug). This drug blocks the action of TNF-alpha to reduce the signs and symptoms of inflammation.

The Benefits of Remicade:

This drug has been approved by the FDA to treat the inflammation of autoimmune disorders such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Ankylosing Spondylitis and Psoriasis.

What You Need to Know Before Taking Remicade:

Serious infections have been reported with other drugs that block TNF-alpha and infections have been reported during treatment with Remicade. Therefore, Remicade should not be used if you have a serious infection. Talk to your physician and your infusion nurse before your infusions to discuss any concerns you may have about an infection.

Before starting Remicade you may be asked to have a tuberculosis skin testing (PPD tests for TB) because reactivation of tuberculosis has been reported with Remicade.

Remicade Side Effects:

The most common side effects are upper respiratory tract infections (such as sinus infections and sore throat), urinary tract infection, cough, rash, back pain, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and headache.

Allergic reactions that may occur during or after an infusion include: hives, difficulty breathing, chest pain, high or low blood pressure, swelling of face and hands, and fever or chills. Discuss your questions about side effects or possible allergic reactions with your physician and your infusion nurse.

Dosing and Length of Infusion:

The infusion time for Remicade is typically at least 2 hours. The initial recommended dose of Remicade is based on your weight and your diagnosis and may range from 3 mg/kg to 5 mg/kg. The initial dose should be followed by additional doses at two and six weeks after the first dose. Thereafter, the maintenance doses are repeated every 6 to 8 weeks.