Does REMICADE need to be titrated?

Does REMICADE need to be titrated?

When Remicade® was first approved, a dose titration was specified in the package insert. Sometime later, this recommendation was removed and now the package insert states simply to infuse over at least 2 hours.

How do you prepare for REMICADE infusion?

The day before the infusion, drink plenty of water to be sure you are well hydrated during the infusion. This is believed to make IV’s easier to insert and reduce infusion reactions. Maybe you can also buy a bottle of your favorite water or juice to bring with you to the infusion.

What precautions have to be taken when infliximab is administered?

It is important to have your heart checked closely if you receive infliximab. Call your doctor right away if you have trouble breathing, swelling in the ankles and feet, or a sudden weight gain. Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor.

Can REMICADE be reconstituted with normal saline?

REMICADE should be reconstituted and diluted prior to infusion by a trained medical professional using aseptic technique. The Prescribing Information recommends that the reconstituted REMICADE solution should not be diluted with any other diluent, except sterile 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP.

Can REMICADE be self administered?

Both Enbrel and Humira can be self-injected, while Remicade must be given at a hospital, which makes it more expensive overall.

How do you titrate REMICADE?

Note: The recommended dose of REMICADE® is 5 mg/kg given as an IV induction regimen at 0, 2, and 6 weeks followed by a maintenance regimen of 5 mg/kg IV every 8 weeks thereafter for the treatment of adults with moderately to severely active Crohn’s disease.

What should you do before an infusion?

How to Prepare for Infusion Therapy

1. Follow your doctor’s instructions. Some infusions require a patient to hydrate prior to treatment.
2. Write down all of your concerns. Prior to commencing therapy, make a list of all your questions.
3. Make a list of medications you’re taking.
4. Wear comfortable clothes.
5. Clear your schedule.

What should I monitor during Remicade infusion?

Patients should be closely monitored for the development of signs and symptoms of infection during and after treatment with REMICADE, including the possible development of tuberculosis in patients who tested negative for latent tuberculosis infection prior to initiating therapy.

When should you not get Remicade infusion?

Some people with heart failure should not take REMICADE®. Other serious side effects reported include skin cancer, cervical cancer, hepatitis B, heart problems or stroke within 24 hours of infusion, liver injury, blood problems, nervous system problems, allergic reactions, or lupus-like syndrome.

How do you dilute Remicade?

Reconstitute each 100-mg REMICADE® vial with 10 mL of Sterile Water for Injection, USP, to obtain a concentration of 10 mg/mL, using a syringe equipped with a 21-gauge or smaller needle as follows: Remove the flip-top from the vial and wipe the top with an alcohol swab.

Can Remicade be self administered?