Living with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can mean dealing with unpredictable symptoms that interfere with work, travel, meals, and everyday life. These conditions are both forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and while there is currently no cure, advances in treatment have given patients more options for controlling inflammation and achieving long-term remission.

For some patients, infusion therapy can play an important role in managing IBD.

At Springside Infusion, we work closely with your gastroenterologist to provide prescribed infusion therapy in a comfortable outpatient environment.

What Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Inflammatory bowel disease is a group of conditions involving chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.
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The two most common forms are:

Crohn's disease can cause inflammation anywhere along the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. It can affect multiple layers of the intestinal wall.

Ulcerative colitis affects the colon and rectum, with inflammation involving the inner lining of the colon.

Although the two diseases are different, they can cause similar symptoms.

Common Symptoms of IBD

Symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of inflammation but may include:

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Persistent diarrhea
• Blood in the stool
• Fatigue
• Reduced appetite
• Unintended weight loss
• Urgency to have a bowel movement

Patients may experience periods when symptoms become more active, known as flares, followed by periods when symptoms improve or disappear.

How Can Infusion Therapy Help?

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis involve an abnormal immune response that contributes to inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

Certain biologic medications target specific pathways involved in that inflammatory process.

The goals of treatment may include:

• Reducing inflammation
• Controlling symptoms
• Achieving and maintaining remission
• Reducing the frequency of disease flares
• Promoting healing of the intestinal lining
• Helping prevent complications

Your gastroenterologist will determine the treatment that's most appropriate for you.

Common Infusion Therapies for IBD

Several medications used to treat Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis may be administered by infusion.
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Remicade® and Infliximab Biosimilars – Infliximab targets a protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) that contributes to inflammation. Infliximab and its biosimilars are used to treat moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis in appropriate patients.

Entyvio® (vedolizumab) – Entyvio works by targeting certain immune cells involved in inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. It is approved for adults with moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

SKYRIZI® (risankizumab-rzaa) – SKYRIZI targets a specific immune-system protein involved in inflammation. For certain IBD indications, treatment may begin with intravenous induction doses before transitioning to maintenance therapy.

Other therapies may also be available depending on your diagnosis, previous treatments, medical history, and your physician's recommendations.

What Happens During an IBD Infusion?

When you arrive for treatment, your infusion nurse will review your health status and check your vital signs.

An IV is then placed, and your medication is administered according to your physician's order and the medication-specific protocol.

During your treatment, your nurse monitors you for safety and comfort. Depending on the medication, your appointment may take anywhere from less than an hour to several hours.

Many patients bring a laptop, book, headphones, or another activity to enjoy during treatment.

Why Choose an Outpatient Infusion Center?

For patients who are medically appropriate for outpatient care, an infusion center can provide a convenient alternative to receiving routine treatment in a hospital setting.

Benefits can include:

• Comfortable treatment spaces
• Experienced infusion nurses
• Convenient scheduling
• Personalized attention
• Coordination with your gastroenterologist
• Insurance verification and prior authorization support

Most importantly, your treatment remains directed by the physician managing your IBD.

Helping Make Long-Term Treatment Easier

Managing Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis often requires ongoing care. When infusion therapy becomes part of that care, having a treatment environment where you feel comfortable can make a meaningful difference.

At Springside Infusion, our goal is to make every visit as easy and comfortable as possible while working closely with your gastroenterology team throughout your treatment journey.

If your gastroenterologist has prescribed infusion therapy for Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, contact Springside Infusion to learn more about receiving your treatment in our outpatient infusion center.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often will I need an IBD infusion?

It depends on the medication. Some therapies begin with several induction doses given closer together and then transition to maintenance treatments every several weeks. Your gastroenterologist will determine your schedule.

How quickly will I feel better after starting treatment?

Response times vary. Some patients notice improvement relatively quickly, while others may need several treatments before experiencing the full benefit. Continue treatment as prescribed and discuss your symptoms with your gastroenterologist.

Can I receive an infusion if I'm sick?

Because many IBD medications affect the immune system, tell your healthcare team if you develop a fever, infection, or other illness before your appointment. Your physician or infusion team can determine whether treatment should proceed.

Will insurance cover my IBD infusion?

Coverage depends on your health plan, medication, and clinical circumstances. Many specialty medications require prior authorization. Springside Infusion works with your physician and insurance provider to help verify benefits and coordinate authorization requirements before treatment.