Some individuals are advised against taking REMICADE® (infliximab) due to potential serious health risks. Most notably, some people with heart failure should not take REMICADE®. This is a critical consideration as the medication can exacerbate existing cardiac conditions.
Beyond heart failure, patients must undergo a thorough medical evaluation before starting REMICADE® due to the potential for serious side effects that could pose significant risks, especially for those with certain pre-existing conditions or predispositions.
Key Considerations and Serious Risks
While the most direct contraindication mentioned is for certain individuals with heart failure, the broad range of serious side effects reported with REMICADE® necessitates careful patient selection. These side effects suggest that individuals with a history of, or high risk for, certain conditions may also be advised against taking this medication or would require very close monitoring.
Here are some of the serious risks associated with REMICADE® that could prevent a person from taking it, or require extreme caution:
| Condition/Risk | Implication for REMICADE® Use |
|---|---|
| Heart Failure | A direct contraindication for some individuals. REMICADE® can worsen existing heart failure, leading to severe outcomes. |
| History of Certain Cancers | Serious side effects include skin cancer and cervical cancer. Individuals with a history of these cancers, or those at high risk, may need careful evaluation and potentially be advised against REMICADE®. |
| Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) | Reactivation of Hepatitis B can occur and is a serious reported side effect. Patients should be screened for HBV infection before starting treatment, and those with active infection or a history of HBV may be unable to take REMICADE®. |
| Severe Allergic Reactions | Allergic reactions, including severe ones, have been reported. Individuals with a known hypersensitivity to infliximab or its components, or who have experienced a severe reaction to a prior dose, should not take REMICADE®. |
| Nervous System Problems | Serious nervous system problems are reported, including seizures, numbness, tingling, or problems with vision. Individuals with pre-existing neurological conditions may be at increased risk. |
| Blood Problems | Severe blood problems, such as low blood counts (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia), are reported. Patients with a history of blood disorders may require vigilant monitoring or be contraindicated. |
| Liver Injury | Liver injury, including acute liver failure, has been reported. Individuals with pre-existing liver disease or elevated liver enzymes may be at higher risk and require careful consideration. |
| Heart Problems or Stroke (within 24 hours) | Heart problems or stroke can occur within 24 hours of infusion. Patients with a history of cardiovascular events or significant risk factors for heart attack or stroke need thorough assessment. |
| Lupus-Like Syndrome | The development of a lupus-like syndrome is a reported side effect. Patients who develop symptoms resembling lupus may need to discontinue the medication. |
It is crucial for anyone considering REMICADE® to disclose their complete medical history, including any past or current conditions, to their healthcare provider. A doctor will assess the individual's specific health profile against the potential benefits and risks to determine if REMICADE® is an appropriate and safe treatment option.
