Name of the Procedure

Injection, infliximab-axxq, biosimilar, (avsola), 10 mg (HCPCS Code: Q5121)

Summary

This procedure involves administering an injection of infliximab-axxq, a biosimilar medication marketed as Avsola. It is used to treat certain autoimmune diseases by reducing inflammation in the body.

Purpose

Avsola is primarily used to manage chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis. The main goal is to decrease the inflammatory response, alleviate symptoms, and improve quality of life.

Indications

• Moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis
• Active Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Patients who have not responded well to other treatments

Preparation

• Patients may need to undergo screening for tuberculosis and certain infections.
• There may be a need to adjust or stop certain medications before receiving the injection.
• No specific fasting requirements generally apply.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare provider reviews the patient's medical history and current medications.
2. The injection site is typically cleaned and sterilized.
3. Using a syringe, the healthcare provider administers the infliximab-axxq injection intravenously (IV).
4. The patient is monitored for any adverse reactions following the administration.

Duration

The actual injection takes a few minutes, but monitoring afterward may require up to a couple of hours in a healthcare setting.

Setting

This procedure is usually conducted in an outpatient clinic or a hospital outpatient infusion center.

Personnel

• Registered Nurse (RN) or licensed healthcare provider to administer the injection.
• An overseeing physician or specialist.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Injection site reactions, headache, nausea
• Rare risks: Severe allergic reactions, infections, delayed hypersensitivity reactions

Benefits

• Reduction in inflammation and symptom relief.
• Improvement in overall quality of life.
• The onset of benefits may be seen within weeks, though it may take longer for full effects.

Recovery

• Patients are generally observed for a short period after the injection to monitor for adverse reactions.
• Normal activities can usually resume shortly after the procedure.
• Follow-up appointments may be necessary to assess the effectiveness and make any adjustments.

Alternatives

• Other biologic therapies, such as Humira (adalimumab) or Enbrel (etanercept).
• Non-biologic medications like methotrexate.
• Each alternative comes with its own efficacy rates, side effects, and administration methods.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel a slight pinch or discomfort during the injection.
• Post-injection monitoring ensures patient safety and comfort.
• Any discomfort or side effects can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and supportive care.