What cancer risks are linked to Remicade (infliximab)?
Remicade (infliximab) suppresses parts of the immune system. Because of how it works, there has been concern about whether it can increase the risk of developing certain cancers.
Clinical and safety information summarized in Remicade’s prescribing information notes that people taking TNF blockers have been reported to develop malignancies, including lymphoma and non-melanoma skin cancer [1].
Does Remicade cause cancer or just increase risk?
Based on available safety information, Remicade is not described as “causing” cancer in every patient. Instead, reports and warnings indicate it may be associated with an increased risk of some cancers compared with people not using the drug [1]. Risk depends on individual factors and the presence of other risk factors (such as age, smoking, prior cancer history, long-term immune suppression, and the combination with other immunosuppressants).
What types of cancer are most often discussed?
The cancer types most commonly highlighted with TNF blockers like Remicade include:
- Lymphoma (a type of blood cancer) [1]
- Non-melanoma skin cancer, such as basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma [1]
Who should be especially cautious?
Risk may be higher in people with certain background risk factors, including those with:
- Past malignancy or history of cancer
- Older age
- Long-term and/or combined immunosuppressive therapy
Those details are part of the rationale behind warnings and the need for individualized risk assessment before and during treatment [1].
Can cancer show up because of the underlying disease?
Inflammatory diseases treated with Remicade (such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis) are themselves associated with cancer risks in certain contexts and over long time periods. That makes it difficult to draw a simple line between “the drug” and “the disease.” Safety data for Remicade focuses on the fact that malignancies have occurred in people taking it, even though the overall cause can be multifactorial [1].
What should patients do if they’re worried?
If you’re concerned about cancer risk while taking Remicade, the practical next steps are:
- Tell your clinician about any personal cancer history and any new or changing symptoms.
- Ask whether you need skin cancer screening and regular monitoring.
- Do not stop Remicade without medical guidance, since stopping suddenly can worsen the underlying condition; decisions about switching therapy should be individualized [1].
If you share your age, condition (Crohn’s/UC/RA/psoriatic disease), how long you’ve been on Remicade, and whether you’re on other immunosuppressants (like methotrexate), I can help you think through what questions to ask your doctor and what monitoring is commonly recommended.
Sources
- Drug prescribing information for Remicade (infliximab)