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Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the digestive tract. Crohn’s is a common disorder affecting more than half a million people. It can cause a wide range of symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition. Ulcerative Colitis affects an estimated million people, making it the most common form of inflammatory bowel disease. Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the colon and rectum. It can cause a variety of symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and fatigue. The goals of treatment are to decrease inflammation in the intestines, colon and rectum to prevent flare-ups of symptoms, and to keep the patient in remission. One proven treatment option for Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis disease is infusion therapy.
Infusion therapies used to treat Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis disease are called biologic agents. Biologics agents are derived from natural sources, such as human or animal genes or microorganisms, and are designed to act on the immune system, specifically target the parts that contribute to inflammation. Some common infusion treatments with Remicade, Entyvio and Skyrizi.
Remicade (infliximab) a type of infliximab agent, is administered as an intravenous infusion. The frequency of infusions depends on the severity of the disease and the individual’s response to treatment. The initial few doses are usually followed by maintenance infusions every 8 weeks.
Remicade works by blocking the activity of a type of immune system protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF). This protein helps your body fight infections. But with some diseases, such as arthritis and Crohn’s disease, the body makes too much TNF, or TNF is too active.
Entyvio (vedolizumab) is administered as an intravenous infusion in a hospital or clinic setting. The frequency of infusions depends on the individual’s response to treatment, but it is typically administered every 8 weeks.
Entyvio addresses the problem of too many white blood cells in the GI tract and blocks the inflammatory cells from getting to the site of inflammation.
Skyrizi (risankizumab-rzaa) is a biologic agent used to treat several inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Crohn’s disease. The frequency of Skyrizi infusions depends on the individual’s condition and response to treatment. The initial doses are 3 IV infusions followed by injections every 8 weeks.
Skyrizi works by blocking a protein called interleukin-23 (IL-23), which is involved in the immune system’s inflammatory response. By blocking IL-23, Skyrizi helps reduce inflammation in the body and improve symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions. Skyrizi has efficacy in treating moderate to severe Crohn’s disease in clinical trials.
Infusion therapy can be an effective treatment option for Crohn’s and Colitis disease, but it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider. Infusion therapy may have side effects, such as allergic reactions, infections, or infusion reactions, and it may not be appropriate for everyone.
For many people with Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, infusion therapy can be an effective treatment option that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
General Tips for Managing Crohn’s and Colitis Disease for Infusion Patients:
1. Stick to your infusion schedule: Infusions are typically given regularly, so ensure you keep up with your appointments to benefit from the medication.
2. Manage symptoms: Crohn’s and Colitis disease can cause various symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. Speak with your healthcare professional about ways to manage your symptoms, such as dietary changes, medication, or surgery.
3. Follow a healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help to support your overall health and improve your symptoms. This includes eating a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and enough rest.
4. Attend regular check-ups: Regular check-ups with your healthcare professional can help to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Make sure to attend all scheduled appointments and report any changes in your symptoms.
5. Be aware of potential side effects: Infusions may cause side effects, such as allergic reactions, nausea, and headache. Speak with your healthcare professional if you experience any side effects or concerns.
6. Seek support: Crohn’s and Colitis disease can be a challenging condition to manage physically and emotionally. Seek support from family, friends, or a support group to help you cope with the challenges of the condition.
7. Stay informed: Stay informed about your condition and treatment options by reading reputable sources of information, attending educational events, and asking your healthcare professional any questions.
Sage Infusion Can Help
At Sage Infusion, we provide expert patient-centered infusion care in a contemporary boutique environment. Sage Infusion eases your medical burdens by handling the care coordination process, including insurance authorization and patient progress updates. Our flexible scheduling meets our patient’s needs with extended hours. Day, night, and weekend appointments are available. Our physician assistants and nurse practitioners follow the National Infusion Center Association guidelines and our proprietary clinical protocols. Sage Infusion offers a variety of comforting amenities, and patients can choose to receive treatment in the open lounge or private room.
With locations in The Villages – Lake Sumter, Fort Myers, Clearwater, Orlando, Sarasota, and Tampa, Sage Infusion offers the best infusion and administration facilities in the Sunshine State. At Sage Infusion, we’ve reimagined patient care. From a quick start, to upfront pricing and financial assistance to compassionate care by our clinical experts in a serene environment, you will experience infusion therapy like never before.
352-565-5553
sageinfusion.com/swwellness
910 Old Camp Road, Suite 196
The Villages, FL 32162
