2 Common Ways Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatments Are Administered

Biologics are an increasingly common treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The route of administration varies between brands, with pills being rare. Understanding the most common ways treatments are administered can help you and your rheumatologist find the best option for you.

Infusions

Some biologics are only available as infusions or they may also be offered as injections, but your rheumatologist may start you on infusions before switching to injections. Infusions are done in an infusion center, which may be located in a hospital outpatient setting or a stand-alone infusion center. Before the infusion begins, you may receive medications like antihistamines. A loading dose of antihistamines reduces the chance of side effects from the medication like allergic reactions. A medical professional will place an IV line, typically in the arm, and start with normal saline to ensure the line is open. Then they will begin the infusion. Since infusions are slow, the process may take several hours to complete. After the infusion, the medical staff may want you to stay awhile to ensure there are no allergic reactions or complications before you can go home.

In rare instances, some people require a port for their infusions. This may be done if medical professionals frequently have difficulties finding a vein for the infusion and having a port simply makes it easier to have frequent infusions. Installing a port requires a minor surgical procedure where the port is connected to a vein in the chest. For future infusions, medical professionals can easily connect the IV to the port and start by flushing the line with saline to ensure there is no blockage before beginning the infusion. When you have a port, you need to be cognizant of special care to keep the port free of infection and remain vigilant for any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or discharge from the port.

Injections

For some medications, patients may start with infusions and once it is determined there are no adverse reactions, they can switch to injections. There are several types of injections, depending on the specific medication. Some injections use a standard syringe, which may be pre-loaded or loaded by the patient. Other injections consist of a pre-loaded pen, where the patient presses a button and the injection is delivered automatically.

If you have the option to choose your type of injection, there are several factors to consider. People who have a fear of needles may prefer pens since they cannot see the needle. A standard syringe allows you more control over the process. In rare instances, a pen may not work properly and will need to be replaced. Your specific medication will typically give you a few options where you can insert the injection, such as the back of the upper arm, front of the thighs, or the abdomen. You should rotate between several injection sites.

Before performing the injection, you will need to cleanse the area with alcohol wipes. After the injection, you can apply gentle pressure with sterile gauze and place a bandage over the area, because there may be a small amount of bleeding. Syringes and pens should be disposed of properly, such as in a sharps container. Every jurisdiction will have different regulations on how you can dispose of sharps containers. Some sharps containers can be purchased that allow you to mail in a full container for disposal.

Infusions and injections are the most common routes of administration for biologics. Your options for injections or infusion may be dictated by the specific medication and your risk of adverse events.

To learn more about infusions, contact a clinic like Idaho Arthritis Center.


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