Remicade is an effective treatment that helps many patients achieve remission.
- Targeted immune therapy. This biologic medication blocks specific proteins that cause inflammation in the gut lining.
- Rapid symptom relief. Many patients report a significant reduction in bleeding and pain shortly after starting treatment.
- Sustained long-term remission. Clinical studies indicate that ongoing maintenance doses can keep the disease inactive for extended periods.
A Remicade infusion is a powerful treatment option for patients who suffer from moderate to severe ulcerative colitis. If you have struggled to manage your symptoms with oral medications or corticosteroids, your gastroenterologist may suggest this biologic therapy.
Understanding how this medication works is the first step toward regaining control over your digestive health.
Understanding Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers in your digestive tract. Unlike Crohn’s disease, which can affect any part of the digestive tract, ulcerative colitis specifically affects the innermost lining of your large intestine and rectum.
The exact cause of this condition remains unknown. However, medical experts believe it involves an abnormal immune response. Your immune system mistakes food, bacteria, and other materials in the intestine for foreign substances and attacks the cells of the lining of the large intestine.
This attack causes white blood cells to flood into the lining of the belly. The result is chronic inflammation and ulceration. This process leads to debilitating symptoms such as severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding.
How Does a Remicade Infusion Work?
Infliximab (Remicade) belongs to a class of drugs called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers. It is not a cure for ulcerative colitis, but it helps manage the disease by targeting a specific source of inflammation.
Your body produces a protein called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). In people with autoimmune conditions like ulcerative colitis, the immune system produces too much of this protein. The excess TNF-alpha attacks healthy tissue in the digestive tract, causing the inflammation that leads to symptoms.
A Remicade infusion works by binding to TNF-alpha in your bloodstream. By blocking this protein, the medication prevents it from attacking the intestine. This action reduces inflammation and allows the ulcers in your colon to heal.
Because this medication is a protein itself, you cannot take it orally. Digestive enzymes in the stomach would destroy it before it could enter your bloodstream. Therefore, medical professionals must administer it intravenously.
What the Research Says About Remicade
Extensive clinical research supports the efficacy of infliximab (Remicade) for treating ulcerative colitis. Two landmark studies, known as the ACT 1 and ACT 2 trials, established the drug as a primary therapy for moderate to severe cases.
Additionally, data published in BioMed Research International found that patients treated with infliximab were more likely to have a clinical response at week eight than those receiving a placebo. The data showed that nearly 70 percent of patients responded positively to the induction doses.
Another recent analysis looked at long-term outcomes. A study published in the Journal of Crohn’s and Colitis highlighted that patients who stay on a scheduled Remicade infusion maintenance plan have lower rates of hospitalization. This research underscores the importance of adhering to the schedule prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Who Is a Good Candidate for This Treatment?
Not every patient with ulcerative colitis requires a biologic medication. Doctors typically prescribe a Remicade infusion for adults and children six years and older who have moderately to severely active disease.
It is often a second-line or third-line treatment. This means physicians usually recommend it after other medicines have failed to work. These other medicines might include aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, or immunomodulators.
Your doctor may also recommend this therapy if you are dependent on steroids. Long-term steroid use carries significant health risks, such as bone density loss and high blood pressure. Transitioning to a biologic can help patients taper off steroids while maintaining remission.
What to Expect During Your Infusion Appointment
Receiving a Remicade infusion is a straightforward process that takes place in a specialized infusion center or a hospital setting. The environment is typically comfortable and designed to put patients at ease.
When you arrive, a nurse will check your vital signs, including your blood pressure and temperature. They will also calculate the correct dosage based on your weight. This ensures you receive the precise amount of medication your body needs.
The nurse will then insert a small catheter into a vein in your arm. The medication drips slowly into your bloodstream through an IV line. The entire process usually takes about two hours.
Your healthcare team will monitor you closely throughout the appointment. They watch for any signs of an allergic reaction or other immediate side effects. You can read, watch a movie, or simply nap while the medication goes in.
Preparing for Your First Appointment
Preparation can help ensure your treatment goes smoothly. You should drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment. Being well-hydrated makes it easier for the nurse to find a vein for the IV.
You should also wear comfortable clothing. Layers are a good idea, as infusion centers can sometimes feel cool. Feel free to bring a blanket or a pillow to help you relax.
Inform your doctor if you have any active infections before your infusion. Because infliximab (Remicade) affects your immune system, it can make it harder for your body to fight off infections. Your doctor may delay your treatment until you have recovered.
Potential Side Effects of Infliximab (Remicade)
Like all potent medications, infliximab (Remicade) carries the risk of side effects. Most side effects are mild and manageable. However, it is important to be aware of them so you can report any changes to your doctor.
Common side effects include respiratory infections, such as sinus infections and sore throats. You might also experience headaches, coughing, or stomach pain. Some patients report feeling fatigued after their infusion.
Infusion reactions can occur during or shortly after the treatment. Symptoms of a reaction may include fever, chills, chest pain, low blood pressure, or shortness of breath. The nurses monitoring you are trained to handle these reactions immediately.
More serious side effects are rare but possible. These include a risk of serious infections like tuberculosis (TB) and certain fungal infections. Your doctor will likely perform a TB skin test and a chest X-ray before you start therapy to ensure it is safe.
Remicade Infusions in Atlanta, GA
At GI Care Infusion, we specialize in providing biological therapies in a safe and welcoming environment. We understand the unique challenges that come with chronic digestive conditions. Our team is dedicated to making your treatment experience as comfortable and efficient as possible.
We work closely with your prescribing physician to monitor your progress. We also handle the necessary coordination with your insurance provider. This allows you to focus on what matters most: your health and your recovery.
If you are experiencing a flare-up of symptoms or have questions about your current treatment plan, do not wait. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term damage to your colon.
Please reach us at (470) 785-4616 or fill out our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
