Remicade (infliximab) is a biologic medicine belonging to the TNF-alpha inhibitor class. It works by blocking tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), a protein that drives inflammation in several autoimmune conditions. It is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion in a hospital or infusion centre.

Remicade is used to treat:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (usually with methotrexate)
• Crohn's disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Plaque psoriasis

Remicade is given as an IV infusion over at least two hours. You will be monitored during and after each infusion for reactions.

Dosing follows an induction schedule:

• Weeks 0, 2, and 6: induction infusions

• Then every 6 to 8 weeks for maintenance
  
  

You cannot self-administer this medicine. All infusions are given by trained medical staff.

Remicade (infliximab) is typically administered by healthcare professionals in a healthcare facility, and patients don't take it themselves like a daily medication. Therefore, the responsibility for the timing and administration of Remicade infusions rests with your healthcare provider or the healthcare facility where you receive treatment.

If you miss a scheduled Remicade infusion, it's essential to contact your healthcare provider or the facility as soon as possible to reschedule the appointment. Consistency in receiving Remicade infusions at the prescribed intervals is important for maintaining its effectiveness in managing autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. Skipping or delaying infusions can affect the control of your condition, so it's crucial to adhere to the recommended infusion schedule and follow your healthcare provider's guidance.

If you have concerns about your Remicade treatment or if you believe you may have missed an infusion, reach out to your healthcare provider promptly for guidance and to reschedule the treatment as needed.

In a clinical setting, any dosing error is managed immediately by medical staff.

Remicade should be stored at 2°C to 8°C (Refrigerate.) Do not use beyond the expiry date. Remicade may be stored at temperatures up to a maximum of 30 °C for a single period of up to 12 months; but not exceeding the original expiration date. The new expiration date should be written on the carton.

Common side effects:

• Infusion reactions: flushing, headache, nausea, chest tightness, itching, or low blood pressure during or shortly after the infusion. You are monitored throughout
• Upper respiratory infections
• Headache
  
  

Serious side effects:

• Serious infections including tuberculosis: mandatory TB testing before starting. Report fever, cough, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss
• Reactivation of hepatitis B
• Lymphoma and other cancers with long-term use
• Heart failure: use with caution if you have heart problems
• Demyelinating disease: new neurological symptoms should be reported
  
  

Regular blood tests and clinical review are part of long-term monitoring.

• Other biologic medicines: significantly increase infection risk when combined. Avoid
• Live vaccines: must not be given during treatment
• Methotrexate: often prescribed alongside to improve effectiveness and reduce the development of antibodies against infliximab
  
  

Tell all your healthcare providers you are receiving infliximab infusions.

What is the difference between Remicade and its biosimilars (Inflectra, Renflexis)?

Remicade is the original (reference) infliximab product. Inflectra and Renflexis are biosimilars: they have been rigorously tested and approved as highly similar alternatives with no clinically meaningful differences in safety or effectiveness. They contain the same active ingredient and work in the same way. Many health systems have moved to biosimilars due to lower cost. If you are switching, no dose adjustment is required.

How long will I need infusions?

For most inflammatory conditions, infliximab treatment is long-term, continuing as long as it is effective and tolerated. Some patients maintain remission for many years. Your specialist will review your response at each visit and may consider stopping or switching therapy if you achieve sustained deep remission.

Ace provides accurate and independent information medically reviewed on prescription medications. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.