Remicade Infusion (Infliximab) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Infliximab (sold as Remicade) is a strong medicine given through a drip into your vein that works by blocking a chemical in your body called TNF-alpha, which causes inflammation and swelling when your immune system is overactive.

What is it used for?

Severe joint pain and swelling (rheumatoid arthritis)stubborn skin rashes that form thick patches (psoriasis)long-term bowel problems with bloody stool and stomach pain (Crohn's diseaseulcerative colitis)stiff back pain (ankylosing spondylitis)

Browse by condition

Rheumatoid Arthritis

How it works

Binds to and neutralizes tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), inhibiting its interaction with TNF receptors on immune cells and endothelial cells, thereby suppressing the inflammatory cascade in autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. This reduces production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and leukocyte recruitment to sites of inflammation.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

Quick Interaction Check

Is Infliximab safe to take with another drug?

Check with multiple drugs →

Similar drugs

Golimumab

Explore this drug

How to take this drug

This is not a tablet — it is given as an infusion (drip) into your vein by a doctor or nurse in a hospital or clinic. The usual adult dose is 3 to 5 mg per kg of your body weight, given at week 0, then week 2, then week 6, and then every 8 weeks after that. Each infusion takes about 2 hours.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a scheduled infusion appointment, contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not try to make up for it on your own — your doctor will decide when to give you the next dose.

What to watch out for

This medicine lowers your immune system, so avoid close contact with people who have infections like TB, which is common in Nigeria. Always get this medicine from a reputable hospital or specialist clinic — never from unverified sources. Report any fever, persistent cough, or unusual symptoms to your doctor immediately, as infections can become serious quickly.

Common Side Effects

Headache
upper respiratory infections like cold and cough
stomach pain or nausea
tiredness or weakness
reactions at the infusion site like redness or swelling

Serious Side Effects

Serious infections like tuberculosis (TB) — if you develop persistent fever
night sweats
or cough
see a doctor immediately. Severe allergic reactions during the drip such as difficulty breathing
chest tightness
or swelling of the face. Signs of liver problems like yellowing of the eyes or dark urine need urgent medical attention.

Drug Interactions

Do not use infliximab together with other strong immune-suppressing biologics like anakinra or abatacept, as it greatly increases infection risk. Live vaccines (like yellow fever vaccine) should not be taken while on this medicine — tell your doctor before any vaccination. Let your doctor know about all medicines you are taking, including herbal remedies.

Check your specific combination

Is it safe to take Infliximab with your other drugs?

Check →

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Infliximab is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically says the benefit outweighs the risk — always consult your specialist before starting or continuing treatment if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Who Should NOT Take This

People allergic to infliximab or mouse proteins should not take it. People with active TB or other serious infections must not use it. Those with moderate to severe heart failure should avoid it. You must be screened for TB and hepatitis B before starting treatment.

How to Store

Remicade must be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C. Do not freeze it. It is handled by hospital pharmacies, so you will not normally store it at home. Keep all medicines away from children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Remicade