Infliximab

Also known as Remicade, infliximab targets a part of the immune system involved in psoriasis. It is given by your health care team through an intravenous (IV) catheter. It can be a very effective treatment for psoriasis.

The dose you are given depends on your weight, so tell your doctor if your weight changes.

Side effects of infliximab

• Reactions where the shot is given
• Headache
• Rash
• Nausea (feeling like you need to vomit)
• Upper respiratory infections (colds)

Rare but serious side effects of infliximab

• Higher risk of getting infections, such as tuberculosis and hepatitis B and C
  • You should be checked for these infections before starting this medicine.
  • Stop the medicine and call your doctor if you have signs of infection.
• Higher risk of certain cancers and a serious brain condition
  • Tell your doctor if you have a personal or family history of multiple sclerosis.
• Serious allergic reaction
• Hives (red, itchy, raised welts)
• Back pain

Vaccines and infliximab

Get a flu shot each year, unless you have been told not to by your doctor. Talk with your doctor before getting live vaccines.

Some live vaccines

• Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR)
• Nasal flu mist
• Varicella
• Zostavax (shingles)
• Yellow fever
• Typhoid
• Live poliovirus

Pregnancy and infliximab

Talk to your doctor before trying to get pregnant. Right now there is no known risk of harm to the baby when this medicine is taken during pregnancy.