Conditions Treated by Infusion Therapy
Infusion therapy is used to treat a wide range of rheumatic diseases, including:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- Osteoporosis
- Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
- Vasculitis
- Gout
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)
Medications administered via infusion include biologic DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs), corticosteroids, and other treatments tailored to reduce inflammation, slow disease progression, and alleviate symptoms.
About the Procedure
Before the Infusion
- Consultation: Your rheumatology team will discuss the specific medication to be administered, its benefits, and potential side effects.
- Preparation: Blood tests may be required to ensure you're a suitable candidate for the therapy.
During the Infusion
- Setting: IBJI physicians perform infusions onsite at our infusion sites located in Bannockburn, Hinsdale, Libertyville, and Morton Grove.
- Process: An infusion nurse or physician's assistant will insert an IV line into your vein. The medication is then slowly infused into your bloodstream over a period that can range from 20 to 40 minutes to a few hours, depending on the medication. If your medication is administered subcutaneously, the nurse will clean the area and inject the medication, a process that may take only a few minutes.
After the Infusion
- Monitoring: Post-infusion, patients are often monitored for a short period for any adverse reactions.
- Follow-up: Your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make any necessary adjustments.
Benefits
Infusion therapy offers several benefits, including:
- Rapid symptom relief
- Direct delivery of medication into the bloodstream, enhancing effectiveness
- Reduced frequency of dosing compared to oral medications
- Close monitoring by healthcare professionals during treatment
Side Effects
While infusion therapy is generally safe, it can cause side effects, including:
- Reactions at the infusion site (redness, pain, or swelling)
- Allergic reactions
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Increased risk of infections due to immune system suppression
Risks
The risks associated with infusion therapy are typically low but may include:
- Infection at the infusion site
- Severe allergic reactions
- Potential increase in the risk of certain infections due to immune suppression
Patients are closely monitored during the infusion process to manage any immediate risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often will I need infusion therapy?
The frequency of infusion therapy varies based on the medication and your specific condition. Some treatments require infusions every few weeks while others may be spaced out further.
Is infusion therapy painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the infusion process, mostly with the initial IV insertion.
Can I resume normal activities after infusion therapy?
Many patients can return to their usual activities shortly after their infusion, although some may experience temporary side effects like fatigue.
Will my insurance cover infusion therapy?
Coverage varies by insurance provider and policy. It's important to consult with your insurance company and healthcare provider to understand your coverage. IBJI has dedicated staff who can help you navigate the insurance process to get the maximum coverage possible.
