What is an infliximab infusion?
Infliximab is a treatment which removes a protein called tumour necrosis factor (TNF) from the body. TNF causes inflammation and ultimately joint destruction. Who benefits from the infusion? People who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and some connective tissue diseases who have not responded to other treatments can benefit from this treatment. How is it given? Infliximab is given directly into the bloodstream by a slow infusion through a cannula (fine tube). This is usually the hand or the arm. For the first five infusions infliximab is given over a two hour period with a further two hours for observation. If all is well the infusion time will be reduced to an hour with an hour observation. The first few infusions are initially given at more frequent intervals. The second infusion given at week two with the third infusion at week six. For people with ankylosing spondylitis treatment will continue every six weeks, those with rheumatoid arthr
