Starting Remicade

[changeiscertain]

Hi all :ysmile:

I'm getting my first ever Remicade infusion this Friday. Does anybody have any advice or words of wisdom/encouragement they can share? I'm a little nervous but I've been in a terrible flare for over a year (not even Prednisone is knocking it out and I've been on 30mg a day for months) and had C-diff on top of it a couple months ago, so just about anything seems worth a try at this point.

 

[moogie]

Actually it's very simple procedure. Bring something to do and a few muchies. Sit back and relax.

Most people are very tired for a day or so after the infusion. So don't plan anything for at least 24 hours. There might be other symptoms but it's quite rare.

And for results it usually takes a few shots. You probably will have another infusion in 2 weeks and then another in 4 weeks. After that you will start feeling a b it better.

Good luck to you and stay strong.

 

[SdN]

It took me 5 or 6 infusions until I hit remission, try to be patient, and when you're weaning off of prednisone take your time. Definitely follow what your doctor recommends but try to go slow with it if you can, you don't want your immune system to rebound you back into a flare.

 

[crazycanuck]

Good luck!

It's pretty standard for a few shots but I was lucky enough to have mine take effect the night after my infusion. I was in my worst ever flare when I started but it is possible to see immediate results.

It is very simple where I go. Sit in a Laz-Z-Boy for 3 hours and do whatever I like. Make sure to take entertainment because it is a long time. I take my ipad and laptop with me. Once the IV is done there is nothing to do but sit and relax. I don't mind going at all actually.

 

[2thFairy]

I took a portable DVD player with me and got caught up on some movies I had been wanting to watch.

Some infusion centers automatically give their patients Benadryl and steroids prior to infusion, whereas other centers do not give premed stuff unless you have had an allergic reaction to the Remicade. If you are given Benadryl, you will need someone to drive you home. Call your infusion center before you go in and see what is their standard practice.