How to Use Remicade

Remicade is the trade name of a prescription drug designed to treat Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which is bleeding of the intestines and stomach lining. The medication is also approved as a treatment for arthritis. Consult with a physician about whether Remicade can help your condition. Because the medication is delivered with an intravenous (IV) infusion, a trip to the doctor's office and at least 2 hours of free time will be necessary to receive the dosage of Remicade.

Things You'll Need

• Doctor's instructions Appointment for administering an IV dose of Remicade

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Instructions

• 1

  Discuss your medical condition with a doctor to determine if Remicade is an appropriate treatment for ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. A physician may also suggest Remicade treatment for severe arthritis, although the dosage frequency is typically less -- a doctor may decide to dose half as often for arthritis than with a more serious illness. Tell your doctor if you take any other medications for arthritis.

• 2

  Go to the doctor's office for your scheduled appointment to receive a dosage of Remicade. Allow at least 2 hours to receive the infusion of medication. There are no restrictions on eating or drinking before receiving an infusion of Remicade.

• 3

  Know that the second dose is administered 2 weeks after the first dose, and the third dose is given 4 weeks after the second dose. Again, allow 2 hours to receive the Remicade infusion. There are no restrictions on diet or liquids before receiving the medication.

• 4

  Plan on receiving an IV of Remicade every 8 weeks after the initial 3-dose treatment.

• 5

  Be aware of Remicade side effects and discuss any of these symptoms immediately with your doctor: infections and the symptoms that accompany infection such as fever, extreme exhaustion, flu, painful skin, and open sores; jaundice (yellowing skin), which is a sign of liver problems; weakness, tingling, vision impairment; any new allergic reactions such as hives, skin rashes, and hand and facial swelling; shortness of breath and chest pain. These are all signs of a negative reaction to Remicade.