Studies show that the drug infliximab can reduce inflammation in your body, so it may help relieve symptoms from conditions like Crohn's disease.It can cause serious side effects and reduce your body's ability to fight infections, so you may decide that it is no longer the right choice for you.It's important to work with your healthcare provider to stop the medication if necessary.It's a good idea to talk to your doctor before you stop treatments.
Step 1: If you have a condition that is in remission, don't stop Remicade.
Some conditions, like Crohn's disease, will have periods during which symptoms seem to disappear or go into remission, but the condition is still present.Your condition may flare up again if you stop your medication during these periods.If you are feeling well and your symptoms seem to have subsided, you should talk to your doctor.Staying on a maintenance dose of Remicade is recommended by the manufacturer.Depending on your condition, the maintenance dose and Frequency will vary.
Step 2: Ask your doctor if you can return to Remicade.
The manufacturer says that when patients stop taking the drug, their bodies produce an immune response.It can make it less effective in the future.If you tried to go back onto Remicade after stopping, ask your doctor if she expects that to happen to you.Your doctor may be able to tell you how often this happens to patients that restart the medication and how bad it is.
Step 3: There is a plan for treatment without Remicade.
If you have a serious condition, you should talk to your doctor.It's important that you're monitored to make sure your condition doesn't get worse if you stop Remicade.What signs should you look for to make sure your condition is not coming back?How will the doctor keep an eye on your health?Do you have other medications or lifestyle changes you can make to keep your condition in check?Are there any drugs you can use to treat your condition if it becomes active?Do you know if your doctor recommends starting another medication after decreasing the Remicade?
Step 4: Make a plan to stop.
Your doctor might not recommend stopping suddenly.Your doctor may be concerned that stopping suddenly will make your condition worse.Ask your doctor how to stop.Your doctor may suggest spacing out your doses until you no longer need them.Your doctor may suggest gradually lowering the doses.Depending on your situation, what your doctor feels will be right for you.You should work with a doctor to figure out how to stop the drug.
Step 5: Side effects can be monitored for yourself.
You should contact your doctor or nurse if you notice any side effects from the medication.You should be aware that not all side effects of the medication show up immediately, but in fact part of your disease or something unrelated, such as a cold.If you develop side effects days or weeks after the injection, you should tell your doctor.It is necessary to stop the medication for some people if they experience severe side effects.Stomach pain, vomiting, or nausea are possible side effects.
Step 6: If you think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor.
Ask your doctor if this medication is safe for you to use while carrying a child.It's not known if this medication is safe for women to take while breastfeeding.There isn't enough proof that it is safe.Should you give your baby formula while on this medication?Some health providers list pregnancy and breastfeeding as criteria that disqualify patients from being eligible for Remicade.
Step 7: If you develop a serious health condition, reconsider Remicade.
You can't be eligible for this medication if you have a health condition.Because this medication affects your immune system, chronic or acute infections may make it unsafe for you.If you develop any of the following conditions, talk to your doctor.