Infliximab

Infliximab is an antibody administered intravenously that is used for treating several chronic inflammatory diseases. Infliximab works by blocking the effects of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha), a substance made by cells of the body which has an important role in promoting inflammation. By blocking the action of TNF-alpha, infliximab reduces the signs and symptoms of inflammation.

Indications

Crohn's disease, Rheumatoid arthritis, Acute ulcerative colitis, Ankylosing spondylitis, plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis.

Dosage

IV; 5-10mg/kg at 0, 2, 6 week and according to indication.

Contra-Indications

Moderate to severe heart failure, Hypersensitivity.

Special Precautions

Patients treated with infliximab are at increased risk for developing serious infections. Opportunistic infections due to bacterial, mycobacterial, invasive fungal, viral or parasitic organisms including aspergillosis, blastomycosis, candidiasis, coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, legionellosis, listeriosis, pneumocystosis and tuberculosis have been reported with TNF-blockers. Patients have frequently presented with disseminated rather than localized disease. Paediatric: Safety not establishe

Side Effects

Acute infusion reactions i.e., fever, chills, pruritus, urticaria, dyspnoea, chest pain, changes in BP, delayed hypersentivity e.g. fever rash, headache, myalgia, opportunistic infection; flushing; GI disturbances, blood dyscrasia, worsening heart failure, arrhythmias, lymphoproliferative disorder, TB.

Drug Interactions

Anakinra, abatecept, live vaccines, methotrexate.