Schedule: Monday - Thursday: 8:00a - 5:00p | Friday: 8:00a - 2:00p
Infusion treatment for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) involves the administration of medications through intravenous infusion to manage and control the symptoms of IBD. Inflammatory Bowel Disease comprises conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which are characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
There are several reasons why a gastroenterologist may prescribe infusions for IBD. One reason is that the medications used in infusions can be more effective than those taken orally in reducing inflammation in the bowel. This may help to prevent further damage to the intestine and improve symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bleeding.
Another reason why infusions may be prescribed is that they can be more convenient than taking medications orally. The medications used in infusions can be delivered directly to the site of inflammation, which can provide relief from symptoms faster than oral medications.
Finally, infusions may be prescribed because they can be tailored to meet the individual needs of each patient. The infusion staff at Northeast Digestive will work with you to find the best medication and dosage for you, and will also address any concerns or questions you have about your treatment.
When you arrive for your infusion appointment, you will be greeted by our infusion staff. They will ask you a few questions about your health and current medications. You will then be seated in one of our infusion rooms and hooked up to an IV. The infusion itself will take approximately 2-4 hours, depending on which medication is being infused. You will be able to watch TV, read, or use any personal devices during the infusion.
Preparing for an infusion treatment for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) involves several steps to ensure a safe and effective experience. Here are some general guidelines to help you prepare:
Remember that these are general guidelines, and your healthcare provider may provide specific instructions based on your circumstances. Open communication with your healthcare team is crucial to ensuring a successful and well-managed infusion treatment for IBD.
IBD infusion therapy, like any medical treatment, can have side effects. Possible side effects include infusion site reactions, flu-like symptoms, headaches, nausea, fatigue, allergic reactions, infections, and liver problems.
It's essential to discuss potential side effects with your Concord clinic doctor before starting infusion therapy and to report any unusual symptoms promptly.
Infusion sessions typically last between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the specific medication being administered and individual factors.
Frequency varies based on your condition and the medication prescribed, ranging from every few weeks to every few months.
Improvement timelines vary, but some patients may experience relief within a few weeks to months of starting infusion therapy.
Coverage varies by insurance plan, but infusion therapy for IBD is often covered if deemed medically necessary. Check your policy or contact your provider for details.
