Name of the Procedure:

Injection of infliximab, biosimilar 10 mg
Common name(s): Infliximab injection, Infliximab biosimilar injection
Technical/medical terms: Infliximab, TNF-alpha inhibitor

Summary

This procedure involves the administration of an infliximab biosimilar, a medication given via injection, to manage certain autoimmune conditions by reducing inflammation.

Purpose

The procedure is used to address chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and psoriasis. The goal is to alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve the quality of life for patients with these conditions.

Indications

• Persistent joint pain and swelling (rheumatoid arthritis)
• Chronic gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)
• Severe psoriasis not responding to topical treatments
• Other inflammatory conditions as determined by a healthcare provider

Preparation

• Patients might need to avoid certain medications prior to the injection (e.g., NSAIDs).
• Regular blood tests may be required to monitor baseline health.
• Fasting is generally not required.

Procedure Description

1. Diagnosis Confirmation: The healthcare provider confirms the diagnosis and necessity for the treatment.
2. Preparation: The patient will sit or lie down comfortably. The injection site, typically the upper arm, abdomen, or thigh, is cleaned with antiseptic.
3. Injection: Using a syringe, the healthcare provider administers the infliximab biosimilar subcutaneously or intravenously.
4. Observation: Post-injection, the patient may be monitored for a short period for any immediate adverse reactions.

Tools & Equipment:

• Sterile syringe and needle
• Antiseptic wipes
• Bandage (if necessary)

Duration

The actual injection process takes about 10-15 minutes, but the total visit might last around 30 minutes to 1 hour including preparation and observation.

Setting

The procedure can be performed in an outpatient clinic, a physician's office, or a hospital setting.

Personnel

• Registered nurse (RN) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN) for administering the injection
• Physician or specialist overseeing the treatment (e.g., rheumatologist, gastroenterologist)

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, pain)
• Mild allergic reactions (rash, itching)

Rare complications:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Increased risk of infections due to immune suppression
• Potential reactivation of latent infections (e.g., tuberculosis)

Benefits

• Reduction in symptoms of chronic inflammatory diseases
• Decreased pain and swelling
• Improved joint mobility and function
• Potential for long-term remission in certain conditions Benefits may be noticeable within a few days to a few weeks.

Recovery

• Expected recovery is immediate with minimal downtime.
• Patients are advised to monitor for and report any adverse reactions.
• Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to assess efficacy and administer future doses if necessary.

Alternatives

• Oral medications (e.g., methotrexate, sulfasalazine)
• Other injectable biologics (e.g., etanercept, adalimumab)
• Non-pharmacologic treatments (e.g., physical therapy, dietary changes)

Pros of alternatives:

• Non-invasive options like oral medications
• Different modes of action that might be suitable for specific individuals Cons of alternatives:
• May not be as effective for certain patients
• Potential for different side-effect profiles

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel a slight pinch during the injection and some minor discomfort.
• Pain at the injection site may be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses.
• Ongoing communication with the healthcare provider is crucial for managing side effects and ensuring the best outcome.