Infliximab (Remicade)

How does this medicine work?

Infliximab (in-fliks-ih-mab) is a monoclonal antibody used to treat moderately to severely active Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis. It decreases inflammation and tissue damage by neutralizing the activity of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a).

How is it given?

Infliximab is given into the vein (IV) in the clinic or hospital. A nurse will gradually increase the rate of the infusion, and monitor your child closely. The infusion will take about 2 hours.

Are there any precautions about food or other medicines?

Check with the doctor, nurse practitioner, or pharmacist before giving any other prescription or non-prescription medicines, herbs, or vitamins. Talk to your doctor before letting your child get any live vaccines or flu shots.

Your child will need to be tested for tuberculosis before one or more infusions.

What are the side effects?

Occasional

• fever, chills during infusion
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• pain in stomach, muscles or joints
• headache
• tiredness
• redness or pain at IV site
• swelling of feet

Rare

• trouble breathing during infusion
• high or low blood pressure
• increased heart rate
• dizziness
• weight loss
• serious infections
• cancer of the lymph system

When should I call the clinic?

• chest pain
• irregular heartbeat
• swelling in face, lips, or throat
• trouble swallowing
• signs of infection:
  - cough, cold, sore throat
  - fever or chills
• signs of allergic reaction:
  - rash or hives
  - wheezing
  - trouble breathing - call 911

What else do I need to know?

Tell your doctor if your child has a history of frequent or re-occurring infections. Infections are more likely when using infliximab. Your child should stay away from crowds or people with colds, flu, or other infections.

Questions?

This is not specific to your child but provides general information. If you have any questions, please call the clinic or pharmacy.

Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota
Last reviewed 8/2015 

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