Remicade Injection

Yes, Remicade is a type of immunosuppressant drug. It suppresses inflammation (pain and swelling) caused by your immune system in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, etc. It works by recognizing and binding to certain special proteins in the body known as tumor necrosis factor (TNF alpha) which is responsible for causing inflammation. Blocking the TNF alpha helps suppress inflammation, pain and swelling.

This varies from person to person depending on the condition. However, in most cases, while improvement in symptoms appears within 2 weeks of starting Remicade, the maximum benefits may be noticed after 4 weeks.

Yes, Remicade may cause heart problems though not in everyone. It may cause heart attack (which can even lead to death), decreased blood flow to the heart or abnormal rhythm of the heart. This generally occurs within 24 hours of beginning of infusion. Symptoms may include chest discomfort or pain, arm pain, stomach pain, shortness of breath or anxiety. Other symptoms may include lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, sweating, nausea (feeling sick), vomiting, fluttering or pounding in your chest, a fast or a slow heartbeat, and swelling of your feet. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms.

Though alcohol does not interfere with the working of Remicade, it is best to avoid alcohol. Discuss with your doctor if you are not sure.

Remicade acts on the immune system and may reduce your ability to fight infections. This may increase the risk of getting serious infections that may spread throughout the body. These infections may be life threatening and may need to be treated in a hospital. Therefore your doctor will monitor you for any infection before starting and during your treatment. Inform your doctor if you develop a fever or any other sign of infection while taking Remicade. Furthermore, there are some reports which suggest that Remicade may increase the risk of some types of cancer. However, remember that your doctor has prescribed this medicine to you because he has judged the benefits to you to be greater than any potential risks. Consult with your doctor if you have any further concerns.

Yes, in rare cases the liver may be affected. Contact your doctor in case you experience fever, dark brown-colored urine, extreme tiredness (severe fatigue) and pain on the right side of your stomach area (right-sided abdominal pain). You must also inform your doctor if you develop jaundice (skin and eyes turn yellow).

You will have to visit the hospital to get this medicine whenever you have a dose scheduled. Remicade is an intravenous infusion that is given via a drip into a vein in your arm over a two hour period under the supervision of a healthcare professional. After your first treatment, you will be given a second infusion after 2 weeks and third infusion 4 weeks later. After that, usually another infusion is given in every 8 weeks. Please consult your doctor to know the schedule that suits your condition best.