In short,
- Infliximab is a TNF-alpha inhibitor used to reduce inflammation and control Crohn’s disease.
- Clinical studies show that infliximab and biosimilars like Renflexis are effective in inducing and maintaining remission.
- Ongoing monitoring is important to ensure safety and long-term success.
Understanding Crohn’s Disease and the Role of Infliximab
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract, often leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. The inflammation can occur anywhere from the mouth to the anus and may involve multiple layers of the bowel wall.
Because Crohn’s is a long-term condition with periods of flare-ups and remission, effective management focuses on controlling inflammation and preventing complications.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), one of the most successful biologic treatments for this condition is infliximab for Crohn’s disease. Infliximab helps reduce inflammation by targeting specific pathways in the immune system that drive Crohn’s symptoms.
Patients often receive infusions of infliximab at specialized clinics like GI Care Infusion, where they can be monitored in a calm, professional setting designed for comfort and safety.
How Infliximab Works
Infliximab is a biologic medication that targets a specific protein in the body called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). TNF-alpha is involved in triggering inflammation. In Crohn’s disease, this protein is overproduced, causing persistent immune activation and tissue damage.
By binding to TNF-alpha, infliximab prevents it from attaching to cells, which helps calm inflammation and allows the intestines to heal.
The medication is administered intravenously, allowing it to enter the bloodstream directly for quick and effective absorption. This method also ensures that patients who cannot tolerate or absorb oral medications still benefit from therapy.
Administration and Treatment Schedule
Infliximab infusions are given at regular intervals in a controlled clinical environment. The initial course typically includes treatments at weeks 0, 2, and 6, followed by maintenance infusions every eight weeks. The infusion process usually takes about two to three hours, and patients are monitored for any side effects or allergic reactions during the visit.
The healthcare team at GI Care Infusion ensures every patient receives personalized attention throughout their treatment experience. From pre-medication assessments to comfortable infusion chairs, the focus is always on patient safety and well-being.
Effectiveness of Infliximab and Renflexis in Treating Crohn’s Disease
Extensive research has shown that infliximab for Crohn’s disease is highly effective for both inducing remission and maintaining long-term symptom control. It can significantly reduce inflammation, promote healing of intestinal ulcers, and prevent complications such as fistulas.
A landmark clinical study demonstrated that infliximab induced remission in patients with moderate to severe Crohn’s disease and maintained remission in those who continued regular infusions. Patients reported improved quality of life and reduced need for corticosteroids or surgery.
Renflexis for Crohn’s disease is a biosimilar to infliximab. This means it is designed to work the same way as the original medication, offering comparable safety, purity, and effectiveness at a lower cost.
Both infliximab and Renflexis have been shown to provide consistent results for patients with moderate to severe Crohn’s disease.
Benefits of Infliximab and Renflexis
Patients treated with infliximab or its biosimilars often experience:
- Reduced abdominal pain and diarrhea
- Improved energy and appetite
- Healing of inflamed intestinal tissue
- Lower risk of complications and hospitalizations
- Fewer flare-ups and longer periods of remission
Potential Side Effects and Safety Monitoring
While infliximab is generally well tolerated, like all medications, it carries some risks. Common side effects can include headache, fatigue, nausea, or mild skin reactions during or shortly after infusion. More serious but rare complications include an increased risk of infection or allergic reactions.
Before starting treatment, patients are screened for tuberculosis (TB) and other infections. This precaution is critical because infliximab reduces immune system activity, which could allow certain infections to reactivate. Ongoing monitoring through blood tests helps ensure that the therapy remains safe and effective.
If you experience symptoms such as fever, persistent cough, or shortness of breath, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Lifestyle and Supportive Care for Crohn’s Disease
Managing Crohn’s disease effectively often involves more than medication alone. Lifestyle adjustments can enhance the success of treatment.
Nutrition and Diet
Eating smaller, more frequent meals can ease digestion. Avoid trigger foods such as high-fat or spicy meals, caffeine, and alcohol. A registered dietitian can help create a plan that supports gut health while providing balanced nutrition.
Stress Management
Chronic stress can worsen Crohn’s symptoms. Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or gentle yoga can help manage stress and promote well-being.
Physical Activity
Engaging in light to moderate exercise supports circulation, reduces fatigue, and improves mood. Always discuss new exercise routines with your healthcare team before starting.
Probiotic Support
Some evidence suggests probiotics may help restore healthy gut bacteria. Discuss this option with your physician before starting any supplements to ensure compatibility with your treatment plan.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek immediate care if you experience any of the following while receiving infliximab for Crohn’s disease or Renflexis for Crohn’s disease:
- Severe abdominal pain or bloating
- High fever or chills
- Bloody stool or black, tarry stool
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives or swelling of the face and lips
Contact your healthcare team if you experience any unusual or persistent symptoms. Regular communication ensures that adjustments can be made to your treatment plan promptly and safely.
Infliximab for Crohn’s disease in Atlanta, GA
At GI Care Infusion, patients receive more than just infusion therapy—they receive compassionate care from a team dedicated to supporting their health journey. The clinic’s comfortable setting, experienced staff, and individualized approach help make infusion therapy as smooth and stress-free as possible.
If you are living with Crohn’s disease and want to learn more about infliximab for Crohn’s disease or Renflexis for Crohn’s disease, our caring team is here to help. We provide expert infusion therapy in a calm, patient-centered environment designed for comfort and safety.
Schedule an appointment online at GI Care Infusion or call (470) 785-4616 today to begin your personalized evaluation and take the next step toward managing your Crohn’s disease with confidence.
