The effects of Crohn's disease can impact your life in many ways, which is why finding the right treatment is crucial. Remicade® infusion therapy is a promising new approach that relieves uncomfortable and embarrassing symptoms, allowing you to enjoy your life again. If you're currently weighing the various treatment options, learn more about this innovative therapy in the guide below.

What Is Remicade Infusion Therapy?

While more research is needed to determine why Crohn's only affects certain people, a specific protein has been identified as a leading cause of symptoms. The protein, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), plays a crucial role in the life cycles of cells, but an excess of it causes inflammation throughout the body. 

This inflammation can occur in the digestive tract, as with Crohn's, or it can affect joint function, as with rheumatoid arthritis. Remicade is an antibody designed to target TNF and reduce its effect on the body. When TNF levels decrease, patients often experience relief from symptoms like abdominal pain, cramping, and diarrhea. 

What Can You Expect During Treatment?

Medication is administered via an injection into the vein. The entire process takes about three hours, but the infusion itself lasts two hours. 

The number of infusions required depends on the symptoms. For patients with fistulas, which are ulcers that form in the intestines and other tissues, three infusions are required. After the initial injection, follow-ups occur after two weeks and six weeks. For Crohn's patients without fistulas, a single infusion session is recommended. 

The team of gastroenterologists at Naugatuck Valley Gastroenterology Consultants are happy to discuss Remicade infusion therapy with their patients. Since 1989, this clinic has helped people throughout Prospect, CT, and New Haven County find relief for a variety of digestive disorders. They'll start with a comprehensive evaluation, which allows them to develop a treatment approach best suited to your needs. Schedule an appointment by calling (203) 756-6422 today.