Infusion Therapies
One method of treating Rheumatoid Arthritis and other autoimmune disorders is infusion therapy. Infusion therapy provides patients with medication administered through a vein. It is a safe and effective alternative when a patient’s condition is severe or if oral medication is not tolerated or has not been effective. Infusion therapy can take place at the doctor’s office or hospital and is managed by a doctor and specially trained nurses.
There are several conditions that can be treated with infusion therapy including:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Systemic Lupus
- Osteoporosis
Before you start therapy, you will be given pre-infusion instructions. Remember to wear loose clothing so you will be comfortable. While receiving therapy, you can bring items to help you pass the time such as a book, magazine, computer, or iPod.
Our infusion room also has a television.
There are several types of medications used in infusion therapy. Depending on your condition, the medications include:
Actemra – Used for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, Actemra works to block the activity of an inflammatory cytokine in the immune system called IL-6. When there are too many IL-6 in the body, too many white blood cells are created and they begin to attack the body and joints, contributing to rheumatoid arthritis. For more information, visit the Actemra website
BENLYSTA – is a prescription medication used to treat adults with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus). Visit the Benlysta website.
Orencia – Orencia is used in the treatment of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. Orencia works to improve symptoms and prevent further damage to your joints. For more information, please visit the Orencia website.
Remicade – Remicade is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. For the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, Remicade is usually taken with methotrexate. For more information, visit the Remicade website.
SIMPONI ARIA® is for adults with Moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, used in combination with methotrexate, Active psoriatic arthritis, active ankylosing spondylitis. This treatment is administered every 8 weeks for 30 minutes.
Rituxan is a medicine used to treat adults with Rheumatoid arthritis usually with methotrexate, to reduce the signs and symptoms of moderate to severe active RA in adults. It is also used to treat another condition Vasculitis
Medicare and most insurance companies cover infusion therapy.
Our billing department will go over your cost-share with you in order for you to fully understand your responsibility for the treatments given.
Once the Insurance approves your therapy the Nurses will contact you for scheduling and can explain what to expect, and what to bring for your first treatment.
Many patient assistance programs are in place to help patients who cannot afford Infusion Therapies. The Office Staff will discuss these programs with you, and will be able to provide more information regarding financial assistance.
Infusion Therapies often require authorization from your insurance company. This may take additional time as the Insurance Company’s prior authorization department reviews clinical information submitted by the office. Once authorization for your medication is granted the office will contact you for scheduling.
If you have any questions please feel free to call the office so we can assist you.
