Remicade

Remicade (infliximab) can affect your body's ability to fight off infections, which can raise your risk of serious or life-threatening bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. The risk is higher for people who have an active infection, people who have infections that keep coming back, adults aged 65 years and older, people with certain chronic conditions that make it easier to develop infections, and people taking medications that weaken your immune system (e.g., steroids or methotrexate).

Remicade (infliximab) might raise your risk of getting certain types of cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, skin, or cervical cancer. The risk is higher in people 18 years old and younger, if you take other medications that weaken your immune system (e.g, 6-mercaptopurine (Purinethol) or azathioprine (Imuran)), if you have a history of cancer, or if you have severe rheumatoid arthritis. You'll likely need certain labs and occasional physical exams while you take Remicade (infliximab) to monitor your risk of cancer. If you experience symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes in your neck, armpits, or groin, fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, recurrent nosebleeds, lumps on your skin, vaginal discharge, pelvic or back pain, or bleeding that is heavier or longer than usual, contact your provider.

Remicade (infliximab) can cause serious liver problems that can lead to liver failure or death. You might need to get regular blood tests done to make sure your liver is working properly. Seek medical attention right away if you notice swelling of your stomach, yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, stool changes (black, tarry, or bloody stools), coughing or vomiting up blood, confusion, slurred speech, mood swings, or changes in personality. You might need to stop using the medication to prevent further liver damage.

Remicade (infliximab) can cause new or worsening heart failure, heart attacks, fast and irregular heartbeat, and high or low blood pressure. Let your provider know if you experience any signs of heart problems (e.g., shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet, fast and irregular heartbeat, difficulty exercising, tiredness or weakness, chest pain) Remicade (infliximab).

Although rare, Remicade (infliximab) can lead to low blood cell counts. This can raise your risk of serious infections, bleeding, and anemia. If your blood counts drop too low, you'll likely need to stop taking Remicade (infliximab). If you develop any signs of infection (e.g., fever, tiredness, chills, cough, trouble breathing) or signs of bleeding (pale skin, fast heart rate, lightheadedness, blood in your urine or stool), contact your provider right away.

Although rare, Remicade (infliximab) can cause new or worsening nervous system problems, including damage to the nerves and seizures. Tell your provider if you have any neurological problems before starting Remicade (infliximab) or if you get dizziness, muscle weakness or spasms, changes in vision, or loss of balance while taking Remicade (infliximab).