Reaction to remicade and treatment worries

[deb123]

Hi,
I have had Remicade infusions since September 2012, and today I had a reaction. I have had last 3 infusions over 1 hour. After 30 mins I started to feel as though I was being bitten by fleas - very itchy, then I noticed the hives!

The nurse stopped the infusion and doctor was called. She advised some Piriton IV and to slow the rate down.

Well the Nurse followed instruction and injected Piriton then started the infusion again - within a few minutes I felt unwell, sick, heady disorientated and unable to catch my breath! I was really scared.

They stopped the infusion and gave me oxygen and called the doctor, who said to stop the infliximab, and schedule me a GI appointment.

My worry is that I am travelling abroad soon, and I am worried about falling ill. I also heard the nurses whispering that the Infliximab shouldn't have been started again until the piriton had time to take effect.

I have a partially healed perianal fistula which has not exited to surface.

Is it right that I should finish with the Remicade, or did the nurses administer it wrong?
I feel totally washed out now, stressed and drained.

 

[lgpcarter]

Sorry to hear that you had a reaction. I had a minor one - flushing and slight chest tightness that went away when the Remicade was stopped, and I was able to continue the infusion. This happened twice, and since I was already pre-medicated with benadryl and steroids, it was decided that I should have no more Remicade.

I can't comment on whether or not the Remicade should have been restarted, but do think that you may not be able to get it again.

Are you worried about Crohn's symptoms while traveling or side effects from the Remicade? Hopefully you can see your GI before you leave.