Infliximab, Injection

What are other names for this medicine?

Generic and brand names: infliximab, injection; Remicade

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. It is used with another medicine, methotrexate, when the methotrexate alone has not worked. This medicine is also used to treat Crohn's disease (an intestinal problem).

How do I use it?

This medicine is given by IV infusion (slow drip through a needle into a large vein). You will need to have more infusions of this medicine 2 and 6 weeks after the first one. For rheumatoid arthritis, you may then need more infusions 8 weeks apart. Keep all your appointments for infusions.

What should I watch out for?

Rarely, this medicine causes a condition called lupuslike syndrome. Its symptoms include a rash on your face or other parts of your body, sensitivity to sunlight, and mouth sores. Talk to your health care provider about this.

Tell your health care provider if you develop a fever. Ask your health care provider what other signs or symptoms of infection you should look for.

This medicine may cause an allergic reaction. If you develop hives, itching, tightness in your chest, or trouble breathing, contact your health care provider right away or get emergency medical care.

Females of childbearing age: Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Breast-feeding is not recommended while you are receiving this medicine.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Serious (report these to your health care provider right away): Lupuslike syndrome (rash, sensitivity to sunlight, mouth sores), allergic reaction (hives, itching, tightness in your chest, trouble breathing).

Other: Fever, chills, chest pain, nausea, chest infection, headache, cough, vomiting, stomach pain, sinus infection, runny nose, tiredness.

What products might interact with this medicine?

Some vaccinations are not recommended to be given at the same time as infliximab. Ask your health care provider about this.

Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, nonprescription, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins) with you. Be sure that you tell all health care providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your health care provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.