When living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), finding the right treatment is essential to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent further joint damage. Two common classes of RA infusion therapies—TNF blockers and IL-6 inhibitors—offer effective solutions, but understanding the differences between them can help you and your healthcare provider choose the right option for your needs.
Smart Infusion Therapy Services is your trusted provider for rheumatoid arthritis infusion therapy. Our experienced team works closely with you and your healthcare provider to deliver personalised care and expert infusion treatments, ensuring the best outcomes for your unique RA symptoms. Schedule an appointment with us today to explore which infusion therapy can help you feel your best.
Here's a detailed comparison of TNF blockers and IL-6 inhibitors to help you understand your options and choose the right treatment.
TNF Blockers: What to Know
TNF blockers are a class of biologic medications designed to reduce the inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. They work by targeting tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), a protein that plays a key role in promoting inflammation. By blocking this protein, TNF blockers help ease joint swelling, pain, and stiffness.
Available biosimilars include:
- Infliximab-dyyb (Inflectra)
- Infliximab-axxq (Avsola)
- Infliximab-abda (Renflexis)
- Infliximab-qbtx
Effectiveness and Key Benefits
TNF blockers are commonly used to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis and are often prescribed alongside methotrexate for improved results. They have also shown benefits for other autoimmune conditions such as psoriatic arthritis and certain types of inflammatory bowel disease.
Key benefits include:
- Reducing joint pain, swelling, and morning stiffness
- Improving physical function and mobility
- Slowing the progression of joint and bone damage
- Supporting a better quality of life by easing daily discomfort
Infusion sessions are typically scheduled every 6 to 8 weeks, depending on individual response and treatment goals.
Side Effects and Patient Considerations
As with any biologic therapy, TNF blockers carry some risks. Common side effects may include:
- Mild upper respiratory infections or sinus congestion
- Headache, nausea, or fatigue after infusion
- Mild skin rashes or injection site reactions
Less commonly, more serious risks can occur, such as increased susceptibility to infections or changes in liver function. Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely with regular check-ups and lab work to help ensure safe and effective treatment.
Individuals with certain conditions, such as heart failure, a history of infections, or specific neurological concerns, may require extra evaluation before starting therapy.
IL-6 inhibitors: What to Know
IL-6 inhibitors are another class of biologic therapies used to manage moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. Instead of targeting TNF, these medications block the interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor, a key part of the immune system that contributes to inflammation and joint damage.
By interfering with the IL-6 pathway, these therapies help reduce chronic inflammation, ease joint pain, and improve daily function for patients who may not respond well to other treatments.
Effectiveness and Key Benefits
IL-6 inhibitors are FDA-approved for treating rheumatoid arthritis and are an important option for patients who need an alternative to TNF blockers.
Key benefits include:
- Reducing joint swelling, stiffness, and pain
- Improving fatigue, energy levels, and overall quality of life
- Helping slow the progression of joint and cartilage damage
- Offering effective results for patients who have not achieved relief with other therapies
Treatment is typically administered either through IV infusion or subcutaneous injection, with infusions often scheduled about once every 4 weeks.
Side Effects and Patient Considerations
While many patients tolerate IL-6 inhibitors well, side effects can occur. These may include:
- Mild upper respiratory infections, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms
- Headache or elevated blood pressure
- Changes in cholesterol levels or liver enzyme elevations
- Rare risk of gastrointestinal complications, such as ulcers
Patients should be screened for hepatitis, tuberculosis, and other conditions before starting treatment. Your healthcare professional may pause treatment if adverse effects occur.
Choosing the Right RA Infusion Therapy for You
When comparing TNF blockers and IL-6 inhibitors, there’s no single treatment that works best for everyone. The right therapy depends on your rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, how advanced your condition is, any other health issues you may have, and your past responses to medication.
You may benefit from a TNF blocker if:
- You have additional conditions like psoriatic arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease
- You have already seen improvement with therapies that target TNF
- You’re successfully managing RA alongside methotrexate
An IL-6 inhibitor may be a better choice if:
- You have not responded well to TNF inhibitors
- You need a different approach to managing inflammation
- You are looking for an alternative to TNF-related side effects
Your healthcare provider will carefully review your medical history, treatment goals, and lifestyle needs to help you choose the best option. Ongoing monitoring is essential to adjust your therapy as needed and achieve the best possible results.
How Smart Infusion Therapy Services Can Help
At Smart Infusion Therapy Services in Eau Claire, WI, we specialize in delivering high-quality, patient-centered infusion care for rheumatoid arthritis. Our experienced team collaborates closely with your referring physician to ensure your treatment plan is safe, effective, and tailored to your needs.
We offer:
- Comfortable, welcoming infusion rooms to help you relax during each session
- Expert administration of FDA-approved therapies, including TNF blockers and IL-6 inhibitors
- Continuous monitoring during treatment to ensure your safety and comfort
- Clear communication and education, so you feel confident managing your RA between appointments
Our goal is to help you manage your symptoms, protect your joints, and maintain an active, healthy lifestyle—all with personalized care you can trust.
Discover Personalized RA Relief with Smart Infusion
Infusion therapy with TNF blockers or IL-6 inhibitors can make a meaningful difference in managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. At Smart Infusion, we’re here to support you every step of the way with care that’s compassionate, cost-effective, and tailored to your needs.
If you’ve been referred forRA infusion therapy, we invite you to schedule your next appointment with us. Smart Infusion delivers compassionate, cost-effective care tailored to your RA needs — right here in Eau Claire.
