Infliximab (Remicade)

Indications

Moderate-to-severely active UC or active/fistulating CD in adults and children over 6 years old

Contraindications

Moderate or severe heart failure; severe infections. Caution in malignancy; demyelinating disorders; mild heart failure; predisposition to infection; history of dysplasia or carcinoma of the colon. Patients should be up to date with immunisation. Evaluate for tuberculosis before treatment. Use only if essential in pregnancy. | Potential side effects: Abscess; alopecia; anaemia; asthma; chest pain; depression; diarrhoea; constipation; dizziness; fever; fatigue; headache; high/low blood pressure; insomnia; nausea; respiratory, hepatic and gastrointestinal disorders; nausea; vertigo; palpitations; skin reactions; excessive sweating; swollen glands; muscle pain; eye inflammation

Preparations Available

Intravenous infusion; may be changed to subcutaneous injection for maintenance

Quantity

Dose: Initially: 5mg/kg and after 2 and 6 weeks. Maintenance: 5mg/kg every 8 weeks or 120mg every 2 weeks. In practice: 5–10mg/kg every 4–8 weeks. Review if no response after 2 doses (Crohn’s) or 2–6 doses (colitis). Subcutaneous form available for adults.

Sizes Available

100mg powder for infusion vials, £419.62

Price

100mg powder for infusion vials, £419.62

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