If you have recently been prescribed an Inflectra infusion, chances are you have a lot of questions and concerns. Inflectra, also known as infliximab-dyyb, is a type of biologic medication used to treat certain inflammatory conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
While it can be intimidating to undergo any type of medical procedure, preparing yourself for your first Inflectra infusion can help ease some anxiety and ensure a successful treatment.
Here is everything you need to know about preparing for your Inflectra infusion, including what it is, how it works, and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Understanding Inflectra Infusion
Inflectra infusion is a treatment used to help people with autoimmune conditions feel better. These are conditions where the body’s immune system, which is supposed to protect us, mistakenly attacks our own cells.
Diseases like psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease are often treated with Inflectra infusion therapy.
The medicine is given through a process called an intravenous (IV) line – this means it is delivered directly into your bloodstream, allowing it to work quickly throughout your body.
How Inflectra Infusion Works
Inflectra infusion involves a special type of medication known as a biologic. Biologics are made from living organisms and are designed to target specific parts of the immune system.
Inflectra is a monoclonal antibody, which means it is a lab-created molecule that acts like the ones our immune system uses to fight harmful things like viruses.
Inflectra infusion targets a specific protein in the body called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). This protein is important because it causes inflammation, or swelling and redness, in the body. People with autoimmune diseases often have too much TNF-alpha, which leads to symptoms like pain and stiffness.
By using Inflectra infusion, we can block the activity of TNF-alpha. This means the infusion helps reduce inflammation, leading to less pain, less swelling, and more flexibility. When symptoms are managed, patients can enjoy a better quality of life. Over time, the infusion not only makes people feel better but also helps stop further damage to the body, leading to healthier outcomes in the long run.
Conditions Treated with Inflectra Infusion
There are many conditions that can be treated with this type of infusion, including:
Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis affecting some people who have the autoimmune disease psoriasis. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Inflectra can help manage these symptoms by reducing inflammation.
Ulcerative Colitis Treatment
Ulcerative colitis is one of the two types of inflammatory bowel disease that causes long-lasting inflammation and sores in the digestive tract. Inflectra helps control these symptoms, making daily life more manageable.
Crohn’s Disease Treatments
Crohn’s disease is another type of inflammatory bowel disease causing inflammation in the digestive tract. Inflectra can help reduce inflammation, providing relief from symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Preparing for Your Inflectra Infusion
Here is what you need to know to prepare for your infusion.
Talk to Your Doctor
Before you go for your infusion, have a discussion with your doctor. Tell them about all the medicines you are taking, even the ones you buy without a prescription and any supplements. Your doctor will explain what will happen during the infusion and how to get ready for it.
Know What to Bring
When you go for your infusion session, make sure to bring some important items. Bring a photo ID, your insurance card, and a list of the medicines you take right now.
It is also a smart idea to bring something to keep you busy, like a book, magazine, or tablet.
Dress Comfortably
Wear loose and comfy clothes for your infusion. The process takes some time, so you will want to be as relaxed as possible. Wearing layers is smart since infusion centers can be chilly.
What to Expect During Your Inflectra Infusion
The following is what you can expect during your infusion session:
Arrival and Check-In
When you get to the infusion center, you will check-in and show your ID and insurance card. A nurse will take some basic health measurements like your blood pressure and temperature.
The Infusion Process
A nurse will place an IV line in your arm for Inflectra infusion. The Inflectra infusion usually lasts about two hours. During the infusion, the nurse will keep an eye on you for any side effects.
Possible Side Effects
Some common side effects are headaches, feeling nauseous, and dizziness. These are usually mild and go away on their own. If you have any severe side effects, tell the nurse right away.
After Your Inflectra Infusion
There are many things you can do to ensure a smooth transition after your infusion, including:
Rest and Relax
After your infusion, take it easy for the rest of the day. It is normal to feel tired, so plan to rest at home. Avoid heavy activities and make sure you get plenty of sleep.
Monitor for Side Effects
Watch out for any side effects. If you notice anything unusual, like a rash or trouble breathing, contact your doctor immediately.
Follow-Up Appointments
You will need regular follow-up visits to check how you are doing with Inflectra infusion.
Inflectra Infusion at GI Care Infusion in Georgia
If you are thinking about getting Inflectra infusion therapy or need a place to get your infusion, GI Care Infusion is ready to assist you. We have a team of experts who provide personalized care designed just for you. Our infusion center is comfortable and welcoming, which helps make your treatment experience as easy and pleasant as possible.
For more information or to set up a consultation, call us today at (470) 785-4616 or use our appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
