When starting Remicade (infliximab) infusions for rheumatoid arthritis, here are some key points to consider:

What to Expect During Your First Infusion
- Monitoring: You will be closely monitored by a doctor or nurse during and for 2 hours after the infusion to ensure you do not have a serious reaction.
- Pre-medication: Show Full Answer

When starting Remicade (infliximab) infusions for rheumatoid arthritis, here are some key points to consider:

What to Expect During Your First Infusion:
- Monitoring: You will be closely monitored by a doctor or nurse during and for 2 hours after the infusion to ensure you do not have a serious reaction.
- Pre-medication: You may be given medications like Benadryl to prevent or treat reactions.

Possible Reactions:
- Common Side Effects:
- Infections
- Infusion-related reactions
- Headache
- Abdominal pain

- Serious Side Effects:
- Severe infections
- Increased risk for lymphoma
- Hepatitis B virus reactivation
- Liver damage
- Heart failure
- Low blood cell counts
- Lupus-like syndrome
- Nerve damage

- Allergic Reactions:
- Hives
- Rash
- Itching
- Swelling of the face, eyes, mouth, throat, tongue, lips, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Flushing
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Fever
- Chills
- Seizures
- Vision loss
- Chest pain

Delayed Allergic Reactions (3 to 12 days after infusion):
- Muscle or joint pain
- Fever
- Rash
- Hives
- Itching
- Swelling of the hands, face, or lips
- Difficulty swallowing
- Sore throat
- Headache

Long-term Considerations:
- Infections: From common colds to more serious infections like pneumonia, tuberculosis, and fungal infections.
- Cancer Risk: Rare but possible increased risk of certain cancers.

Tips:
- Communicate: Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any severe or unusual symptoms.
- Vaccinations: Ensure you have all age-appropriate vaccines before starting treatment.

For more detailed information, you can visit the Remicade website or consult your healthcare provider.

 This AI-generated response comes from myRAteam and other selected sources. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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In Crohns disease, the development of antibodies to infliximab (Remicade) is associated with shorter duration of clinical response and more infusion reactions. • Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center