What are the infusion reactions associated with remicade?

What infusion reactions can happen with Remicade (infliximab)?

Remicade (infliximab) can cause “infusion reactions,” meaning symptoms that occur during the infusion or soon after. Reported reactions include:

- Fever and chills
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort
- Low blood pressure or reactions consistent with allergic-type responses

These reactions can range from mild to severe, and they may be mistaken for other acute events during treatment.

Can Remicade also cause delayed or allergic-type symptoms?

Yes. Along with reactions that happen during or right after an infusion, some patients may experience hypersensitivity-type symptoms later. This is closely tied to immune responses to infliximab (including reactions that occur as the drug is administered repeatedly).

Who is more likely to experience infusion reactions?

Risk can be higher in people who develop antibodies to infliximab or who have had reactions during earlier infusions. The likelihood of immune-mediated responses can also increase when infliximab is used without a concomitant immunomodulator (a common clinical strategy is to reduce the chance of antibody formation).

What should patients and clinicians watch for during treatment?

During an infusion, clinicians monitor for early warning signs such as breathing problems, chest discomfort, dizziness/low blood pressure, fever, and chills. If symptoms occur, infusion rates are often adjusted and appropriate treatments may be used based on severity.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com – Remicade (infliximab) drug information