Living with an autoimmune disease can be challenging— but finding trusted, local care for autoimmune infusion therapy shouldn’t be.
At Physicians Alliance of Connecticut (PACT), our team of medical professionals has more than two decades of experience in biologics. Among the many infusion therapy options available, REMICADE (brand name for the medication infliximab) and its generic alternatives has helped many patients manage autoimmune disorder symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and/or achieve remission.
If you have questions about REMICADE infusion and what to expect during your REMICADE infusion therapy, we are here to help.
What is REMICADE?
REMICADE, or Infliximab, is a medication belonging to a class of biologics called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha blockers. It works by blocking the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), a protein that helps fight infections. In those with autoimmune diseases, however, TNF is overproduced. By lowering TNF in the body, REMICADE suppresses an overactive immune system, lowering inflammation and preventing it from attacking healthy tissues and organs.
REMICADE is primarily used to treat signs and symptoms of autoimmune disorders such as:
- Crohn’s Disease
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Ankylosing Spondylitis
- Plaque Psoriasis
There are also some generic alternatives to Remicade (infliximab) that are available which include Inflectra, Renflexis and Avsola. All are a biosimilar to Remicade which contain the same active ingredient, Infliximab. All are approved by the regulatory authorities as a safe and effective alternative.
It’s important to discuss these alternatives with your doctor or healthcare provider to determine which medication is most suitable for your specific situation. They can consider factors such as your medical history, the severity of your condition, and any specific requirements you may have to guide you in making an informed decision about treatment options.
Benefits of REMICADE Infusion
Effectiveness
In patients who respond favorably to REMICADE, autoimmune symptoms decrease shortly after starting infusion treatment. If you receive REMICADE for rheumatoid arthritis, for example, symptoms such as joint swelling, pain, fatigue, and stiffness should start to subside within two weeks of starting therapy.
Some patients experience total remission of symptoms after repeated treatment. In a one-year clinical trial, 4 out of 10 patients receiving REMICADE infusion achieved remission at Week 30.
Many patients who receive REMICADE at PACT Infusion Center find that their quality of life improves soon after starting treatment. Tasks become easier, less painful, and more enjoyable once their autoimmune symptoms are under control.
Convenience
Treating autoimmunity via infusion therapy can be a more convenient option versus daily pills and medications. Additionally, intravenous therapy inserts the medication directly into the bloodstream. Often, this brings relief faster than other forms of medication that take time to build up in the system.
Risks of REMICADE Infusion
With any new medication, there are risks. A small number of people experience side effects of REMICADE infusion. The most common ones are:
- Allergic reaction. Occasionally patients have a reaction to certain infusions. Some reactions are treated with over-the-counter medication, while others may require additional medical care. At PACT, our nurses are on standby to observe any potential reactions and reach out to physicians in the facility if further help is necessary.
- Increased risk of infections. Some patients, especially those 65 years or older, experienced increased infections while receiving medications that suppress the immune system.
- Other, less common health issues. Browse a full list of possible REMICADE side effects here.
What to Expect During REMICADE Infusion
We’ll work with your provider to determine the right course of REMICADE treatment for you. Once you arrive, you’ll have access to free on-site parking, WiFi, Netflix, and television in our state-of-the-art infusion center.
Here’s what you can expect as well as a few tips to keep in mind during your visit:
Before REMICADE Infusion
- Get hydrated. With any intravenous therapy, it’s best to arrive well-hydrated. Drink water before your appointment and bring along hydration as well.
- Come prepared. REMICADE infusion therapy takes two hours to complete. Make sure to dress comfortably and bring a book, laptop, or other items to keep you occupied during treatment.
During REMICADE Infusion
- A PACT healthcare professional will check your vital signs prior to treatment and prepare you to receive IV infusion therapy with REMICADE.
- Attentive care. A member from our PACT care team will stay close during treatment to answer any questions, keep an eye on vitals, and respond to any needs you have. After treatment, we may monitor you to ensure no reactions before you leave.
- Treatment in a comfortable environment. Our private facility offers a calming atmosphere to receive your infusion therapy. You can bring work to be as productive as you’d like or feel free to recline in our comfortable chairs and relax.
Schedule an Appointment With PACT Infusion Center
If you’re searching for a reliable facility to receive your REMICADE infusion or a generic alternative, we’re here to help. Our team of infusion specialists is committed to providing private, comfortable infusion services.
Our center is open Monday through Friday and accepts all major insurances, including full Medicare and Medicaid participation. We coordinate closely with referring providers.
For more information or to schedule an appointment at PACT Infusion Center, call (203) 281-5114. We look forward to serving all of your infusion needs.
Learn more about our new, state-of-the-art infusion center and its comfortable features.
About PACT
Physicians Alliance of Connecticut (PACT) is a multi-specialty medical group led and operated by more than 50 physician-members. We are committed to healthcare excellence, innovation, safety and quality in private-practice patient care in the New Haven area of Connecticut.