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Infliximab Infusion for Crohn's Disease at Addenbrooke's NHS Hospital
Introduction to Infliximab (Remicade)
Infliximab, marketed under the brand name Remicade, is a biologic therapy used to treat autoimmune diseases like Crohn's Disease. It is administered through an intravenous infusion and works by targeting and inhibiting a substance in the body called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), which plays a crucial role in inflammatory processes. At Addenbrooke's NHS Hospital, patients with Crohn's Disease can receive this treatment to help manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Treatment Process at Addenbrooke's NHS Hospital
At Addenbrooke's NHS Hospital, the administration of infliximab is conducted under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals. The infusion typically takes about 2-3 hours, during which patients are monitored for any adverse reactions. The hospital's Infusion Suite is equipped with comfortable settings to ensure a stress-free experience for patients. Most patients begin with an induction phase, receiving infusions at week 0, 2, and 6, followed by maintenance doses every 8 weeks thereafter.
Benefits of Infliximab for Crohn's Disease
Infliximab has been shown to be particularly effective in reducing symptoms of Crohn's Disease such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. It can also help achieve and maintain remission, potentially reducing the need for surgical interventions. Patients often experience improvement in their overall well-being and daily functioning. The ability to receive treatment locally at Addenbrooke's NHS Hospital means patients have access to leading care without the need to travel long distances.
Considerations and Side Effects
While infliximab is effective, it is important to consider potential side effects. These can include infusion reactions, increased risk of infections, and allergic responses. Prior to beginning treatment, patients will have a thorough evaluation at Addenbrooke's NHS Hospital to ensure its suitability. Continuous monitoring and regular follow-up appointments help manage any risks and ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
Infliximab Infusion for Crohn's Disease at Addenbrooke's NHS Hospital
What is Infliximab (also known as Remicade)?
Infliximab, or Remicade, is a special medicine used to help people who have Crohn's Disease. It is a treatment that helps calm down the body's immune system. This is done through a drip (IV) in the hospital. At Addenbrooke's NHS Hospital, people with Crohn's Disease can have this treatment to help them feel better and enjoy life more.
How is the Treatment Given at Addenbrooke's NHS Hospital?
At Addenbrooke's Hospital, infliximab is given by doctors and nurses who know a lot about taking care of people. The drip takes about 2 to 3 hours. The nurses check on patients to make sure everything is okay. The Infusion Suite in the hospital is a comfy place, so people can relax during their treatment. At first, patients get the treatment three times: at the start, after 2 weeks, and then after 6 weeks. After this, they get it every 8 weeks.
How Does Infliximab Help with Crohn's Disease?
Infliximab is very good at helping with Crohn's Disease symptoms like tummy aches, diarrhea, and losing weight. It can help people feel better for a long time and might mean they do not need surgery. Many people feel happier and can do more things after getting this treatment. Getting the treatment at Addenbrooke's Hospital means people do not have to travel far to get great care.
Things to Know: Side Effects
Infliximab is helpful, but it might cause some side effects. These might include reactions to the drip, getting more infections, or allergies. Before starting the treatment, doctors at Addenbrooke's Hospital will check if it is right for each person. They will keep checking on patients regularly to make sure they stay safe and healthy. Regular check-ups at the hospital help manage any problems and make sure everyone feels their best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Infliximab, marketed as Remicade, is a biologic therapy that works by blocking a protein called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), reducing inflammation and suppressing the overactive immune response associated with Crohn's Disease.
Infliximab is given as an intravenous infusion, meaning it is delivered directly into the bloodstream through a vein at Addenbrookes NHS Hospital under supervised medical conditions.
An Infliximab infusion typically takes between 2 to 3 hours. Patients will be monitored during the infusion for any adverse reactions.
The initial treatment usually involves infusions at weeks 0, 2, and 6, followed by maintenance infusions every 8 weeks, although the schedule may vary based on individual patient needs.
During your first infusion, medical staff will check your vital signs and begin the intravenous administration of Infliximab. You'll be observed throughout to ensure you don't experience any adverse reactions.
Common side effects include infusion-related reactions such as headache, dizziness, rash, and fever. Serious side effects can occur as well, so it's important to report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare team.
It's important to discuss your complete medical history with your doctor at Addenbrookes, as some conditions may affect the suitability of Infliximab or require additional precautions.
Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, as Infliximab may interact with other drugs. This includes over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
There are no special preparations needed, but it is advised to eat a light meal beforehand and wear comfortable clothing. Bring any medications you may need and plan for a way to get home safely.
Yes, Infliximab is covered by the NHS for the treatment of Crohn's Disease when prescribed by a specialist at a hospital like Addenbrookes.
Many patients continue their normal activities while on Infliximab, although you should avoid heavy lifting or stressful activities on the day of the infusion. Discuss your specific circumstances with your healthcare provider.
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any adverse effects or symptoms after receiving an Infliximab infusion, especially if they are severe or persistent.
Improvement in symptoms can be seen as early as a few weeks after starting treatment. Regular follow-ups and assessments will help determine the effectiveness of the therapy for your condition.
Discuss your plans and any concerns about pregnancy with your healthcare provider, as they will provide guidance based on your specific situation and latest clinical guidelines.
For more information, you can contact your specialist team at Addenbrookes Hospital or the patient support services available through the NHS.
Infliximab is a medicine. It is also called Remicade. This medicine helps by blocking a protein in the body. The protein is called TNF-alpha. Blocking this protein helps to reduce swelling and calm down the immune system. This is important for people with Crohn's Disease.
Infliximab is a medicine. It is given through a needle into a vein. This happens at Addenbrookes NHS Hospital. Doctors and nurses watch to make sure everything is safe.
Getting an Infliximab treatment takes 2 to 3 hours. While you get the treatment, nurses will watch you to make sure everything is okay.
At first, you will get medicine through a drip at weeks 0, 2, and 6. After that, you will get the medicine every 8 weeks. Sometimes, this might change if you need something different.
When you get your first medicine drip, nurses will check your important health signs. They will start giving you the medicine called Infliximab through a drip. They will watch you the whole time to make sure you feel okay and don't have any bad reactions.
Support tips: If you feel scared or nervous, try taking slow, deep breaths. You can also bring a comforting item, like a favorite toy or blanket, to help you feel better.
Sometimes, after a treatment, people may have some common side effects. These can be a headache, feeling dizzy, getting a rash, or having a fever. If you have any of these or if you feel something is not right, tell your doctor or nurse. They can help you.
Talk to your doctor at Addenbrookes about all your past and present health problems. Some health problems can change how safe Infliximab is for you. You might need extra care.
Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take. Infliximab can mix badly with other drugs. This means you should tell your doctor about any pills you buy yourself and any vitamins or supplements you use.
You don't need to do anything special to get ready. It's a good idea to eat something small first and wear clothes that are easy to move in. Bring any medicine you need with you. Make sure you have a safe way to get back home afterwards.
Yes, the NHS pays for a medicine called Infliximab. Doctors at hospitals, like Addenbrookes, can give it to help people with Crohn's Disease.
Lots of people keep doing their usual things when they take Infliximab. But, on the day you get it, do not lift heavy things or do anything stressful. Talk to your doctor about what is best for you.
Call your doctor right away if you feel bad or notice anything wrong after your Infliximab medicine. Do this if it feels really bad or does not go away.
You may start to feel better a few weeks after starting your treatment. It's important to have regular check-ups to see if the treatment is working well for you.
Talk to your doctor or nurse about your plans and any worries you have about having a baby. They can give you advice that is just right for you.
If you want to know more, you can talk to your team at Addenbrookes Hospital. You can also get help from NHS support services.
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