This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Infliximab is an antirheumatic drug developed by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration and initially approved in 1998 for treating Rheumatoid arthritis.

Mechanism of Action of undefined

Infliximab works by binding to and neutralizing TNF-alpha, a protein that plays a key role in inflammation. By inhibiting TNF-alpha, this drug helps reduce inflammation and control the symptoms of autoimmune diseases.

Uses of undefined

Infliximab is used to treat various inflammatory conditions, primarily autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and psoriasis.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Infliximab can be administered only as an intravenous injection into a vein by your physician in a hospital setting. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. 

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

If you are allergic to Infliximab or any other ingredients, you should not use this medication. Individuals who are allergic (hypersensitive) to proteins that come from mice should not receive this drug. If you have active tuberculosis (TB) or another severe infection like pneumonia or sepsis, this drug should not be used, as it may weaken the immune system and exacerbate these infections.

Precautions

Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant before taking Infliximab. It will be given only if needed. If you received this medicine while you are pregnant, inform your baby’s physician before your baby is given any vaccine. Before you start breastfeeding, your last treatment must be at least six months ago. Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding before taking this medicine.

Side Effects

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Infliximab are upper respiratory infections, injection site reactions, headache, dizziness, stomach pain, pain in joints, muscles or back, difficulty breathing, chest pain, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, heartburn, bruising, flushing, nosebleed, feeling tired, depression, difficulty sleeping, eye problems, fast heartbeat, hair loss, tingling sensation or numbness. Some serious side effects include serious infections (TB, blood infections, fungal infections), low blood counts, and possible signs of cancer (weight loss, fever, changes in moles or skin coloring, unusual vaginal bleeding).

Word Of Advice

Diarrhea can lead to dehydration and fluid loss. It's necessary to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear broths when using Infliximab to address diarrhea. Proper hydration helps replace lost fluids and electrolytes and supports the body's recovery.

Frequently Asked Question

References

  1. Janssen Biologics BV, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on Oct 2020] [Accessed on 27th Sep 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.3831.pdf
  2. Janssen Biotech, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on Nov 2013] [ Accessed on 27th Sep 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/103772s5359lbl.pdf
  3. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Immunosuppressants, tolerogens, and immunostimulants, 12th edition, 2011, 1018.

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.