Key Takeaways
- Remicade (infliximab) is a biologic medication that blocks tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a protein involved in the inflammation seen in several autoimmune conditions.
- Remicade is FDA-approved for conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and certain inflammatory bowel diseases.
- Because Remicade is given by IV infusion rather than as a pill, it follows a structured dosing and monitoring schedule set by the prescribing rheumatologist.
- Most patients begin noticing improvement within a few doses, though the American College of Rheumatology notes that the full benefit may take three to six months.
- Smart Infusion Therapy Services administers Remicade infusions as ordered by a patient's rheumatologist, giving Madison-area patients a coordinated option for this therapy. Request an appointment to learn more.
What Is Remicade, and How Can It Help Patients?
Living with an inflammatory condition can make everyday activities difficult, especially when pain, swelling, or other symptoms keep returning. Remicade (infliximab) is a biologic medication designed to help control the inflammation behind these symptoms.
According to the American College of Rheumatology, Remicade works by blocking tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a protein that contributes to inflammation in the body.
For patients, this means treatment goes beyond temporarily easing discomfort. By controlling inflammation, Remicade may help reduce symptoms, improve daily functioning, and limit disease-related damage in certain conditions.
Your doctor may recommend Remicade alone or alongside another medication, such as methotrexate. The treatment plan depends on your diagnosis, medical history, and how your body responds.
What Autoimmune Conditions Can Remicade Help Treat?
Remicade is FDA-approved to treat a range of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, including:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), typically in combination with methotrexate.
- Psoriatic arthritis (PsA).
- Ankylosing spondylitis.
- Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
- Certain cases of plaque psoriasis.
The specific condition being treated determines the dose a rheumatologist prescribes. Other biologics used for related conditions include Cimzia, Actemra, Orencia, Simponi Aria, and infliximab biosimilars such as Inflectra, Avsola, and Renflexis. Smart Infusion Therapy Services administers infusions for these and other rheumatology conditions as prescribed by a patient's physician.
How Is Remicade Different From Oral Arthritis Medications?
Many patients are familiar with oral medications for arthritis, whether over-the-counter pain relievers or standard disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as methotrexate. Remicade works differently in both its mechanism and its delivery method.
| Oral Arthritis Medications (e.g., NSAIDs, standard DMARDs) | Remicade (Infliximab) | |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery method | Taken by mouth, typically daily or weekly | Given by IV infusion on a set schedule |
| Mechanism | Varies; often reduces pain or general inflammation | Specifically blocks TNF, a protein driving autoimmune inflammation |
| Monitoring | Periodic follow-up and lab work | Pre-treatment TB and hepatitis screening, plus monitoring during each infusion |
| Typical use | Often tried first or alongside biologic therapy | Often considered when standard DMARDs have not fully controlled disease activity |
This does not mean one approach is better in every case. A rheumatologist determines the right combination of therapies based on a patient's diagnosis, disease activity, and response to prior treatment.
What Should Patients Expect During a Remicade Infusion?
A Remicade infusion is administered directly into a vein and typically takes about two hours. Before treatment begins, patients are often given medications such as steroids or acetaminophen to help reduce the chance of an infusion reaction. According to the American College of Rheumatology, infusion-related reactions such as fever, hives, or rash occur in fewer than 5 in 100 patients, and the infusion team monitors patients throughout the appointment.
After the initial induction series, Remicade is typically administered on a maintenance schedule set by the prescribing rheumatologist. Staying on schedule is part of what allows the medication to continue working as intended.
How Soon Can Patients Expect to Notice Changes With Remicade?
Response to Remicade varies by individual and by condition. Some patients report feeling improvement after their first one or two doses, but the American College of Rheumatology notes that it can take three to six months to see the full benefit of treatment. Regular follow-up with the prescribing rheumatologist helps track progress and determine whether any adjustments to the treatment plan are needed.
How Can Patients Get Started With Remicade at Smart Infusion Therapy Services?
For patients whose rheumatologist has prescribed Remicade, consistent access to each scheduled infusion is part of keeping treatment on track. Smart Infusion Therapy Services coordinates directly with the prescribing physician and specialty pharmacy while providing treatment in a comfortable outpatient setting. That coordination includes confirming the order, verifying insurance and medication supply, and scheduling each infusion, so patients are not left to manage those details alone. Smart Infusion administers Remicade and related biologic infusions for patients in Eau Claire, Wausau, Onalaska, and Madison, Wisconsin.
To ask about scheduling or get started with infusion therapy, request an appointment with Smart Infusion Therapy Services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Remicade used for?
Remicade (infliximab) is used to treat autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and certain inflammatory bowel diseases.
Is Remicade a pill or an infusion?
Remicade is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion, not a pill. It is typically given over about two hours at an infusion center or hospital setting.
How often are Remicade infusions given?
After an initial induction series, Remicade is generally given on a maintenance schedule set by the prescribing rheumatologist, based on the patient's condition and response to treatment.
What is infliximab, and is it the same as Remicade?
Infliximab is the active ingredient in Remicade. Remicade is the original brand-name version, and several infliximab biosimilars, such as Inflectra and Avsola, are also available.
Where can I get Remicade infusions near me in Wisconsin?
Smart Infusion Therapy Services offers Remicade infusion therapy at its Eau Claire, Wausau, Onalaska, and Madison locations for patients with an active prescription from their physician.
