Infliximab is a protein-based medication referred to as a biologic that treats many immune-mediated conditions. The original manufacturer of this medication is Janssen, and they named it Remicade. In the last several years other manufacturers have produced infliximab as biosimilars. Some of these include Avsola, Inflectra, and Renflexis. The medication was given intravenously in an infusion clinic.
The exciting news is that the manufacturer Celltrion now has a form of infliximab that can be injected instead of requiring you to attend an infusion clinic. This injection format has been available for a few years for patients with rheumatoid arthritis but in February there was a new approval for Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis.
For inflammatory bowel conditions, the first three doses will be given at weeks 0, 2, and 6 as infusions. This is followed by an injection every 2 weeks, starting from week 10.
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis can follow the same schedule as above or have the option to start directly with the injections weekly for the first 5 doses followed by a maintenance dose every 2 weeks.
At Charlton, we work with referring physicians, patients, and drug company support programs to help secure the best coverage for these specialty medications.
Carolyn Whiskin is the Pharmacy Manager for Charlton Health. Carolyn specializes in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, pharmaceutical compounding, women’s health, pain, and smoking cessation. Carolyn has won provincial and national awards for her commitment to patient care and public service.