Living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can make everyday activities challenging. Joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and fatigue can affect everything from getting dressed in the morning to enjoying time with family and friends.

Fortunately, advances in treatment have given patients more options for managing rheumatoid arthritis and protecting their joints from long-term damage.

For patients whose symptoms aren't adequately controlled with traditional medications, infusion therapy may offer an effective treatment option.

At Springside Infusion, we work closely with rheumatologists to provide prescribed infusion therapies in a comfortable, supportive outpatient environment.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints.

This causes inflammation that can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and eventually joint damage if the disease isn't adequately controlled.

Unlike osteoarthritis, which is primarily associated with changes in joint cartilage and surrounding tissues, rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can affect multiple joints and sometimes other organs.

Common symptoms include:

• Joint pain and tenderness
• Swelling in the hands, wrists, knees, or feet
• Morning stiffness lasting longer than 30 minutes
• Fatigue and reduced energy
• Difficulty with everyday activities
• Periods of increased symptoms, known as flares

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important for helping prevent irreversible joint damage.

How Does Infusion Therapy Help Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system produces an inflammatory response that damages healthy joint tissue.

Certain infusion medications, known as biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), target specific components of the immune system involved in this inflammation.

These medications can help:

• Reduce joint pain and swelling
• Decrease inflammation
• Slow or prevent additional joint damage
• Improve mobility and physical function
• Reduce disease activity and flares
• Support a better quality of life

Infusion therapy doesn't cure rheumatoid arthritis, but it can be an important part of long-term disease management.

Common Infusion Medications for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Several FDA-approved medications are administered intravenously to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

Remicade (infliximab) and Biosimilars

Infliximab works by blocking tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a protein involved in inflammation.

It is commonly prescribed with methotrexate for patients with moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis.

Simponi Aria (golimumab)

Simponi Aria is another TNF inhibitor that helps reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.

After initial treatments, maintenance infusions are generally administered every eight weeks.

Orencia (abatacept)

Orencia works by interfering with the activation of certain immune cells called T cells.

Intravenous treatment is generally administered every four weeks after the initial loading doses.

Actemra (tocilizumab)

Actemra targets interleukin-6 (IL-6), a protein involved in the inflammatory response.

For rheumatoid arthritis, IV infusions are generally administered every four weeks.

Rituxan (rituximab) and Biosimilars

Rituximab targets certain B cells involved in immune-system activity.

For rheumatoid arthritis, it is used with methotrexate in certain patients who have not responded adequately to TNF inhibitors.

Your rheumatologist will determine which medication is most appropriate based on your disease activity, medical history, and previous treatments.

What Happens During a Rheumatoid Arthritis Infusion?

Your infusion appointment begins with a review of your health status, medications, and vital signs.

A nurse places an IV in your arm and administers the prescribed medication according to the appropriate treatment protocol.

Throughout your appointment, your infusion nurse monitors you for safety and comfort.

Depending on your medication, an infusion may take less than an hour or several hours.

Many patients bring a book, tablet, laptop, or headphones to help pass the time during treatment.

Are There Side Effects?

As with any medication, biologic infusion therapies have potential side effects.

These may include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Infusion-related reactions
• Increased risk of infections

Some medications carry additional risks, including serious infections or other uncommon but potentially serious complications.

Before treatment, your rheumatologist may order blood tests and screening for infections such as tuberculosis or hepatitis B.

Your physician and infusion team will review the precautions appropriate for your prescribed medication.

Why Choose an Outpatient Infusion Center?

For patients who are appropriate candidates for outpatient care, an independent infusion center can provide a convenient setting for ongoing rheumatoid arthritis treatment.

Potential benefits include:

• Comfortable infusion suites
• Experienced infusion nurses
• Personalized attention
• Convenient scheduling
• Coordination with your rheumatologist
• Insurance verification and prior authorization support

At Springside Infusion, our goal is to make each appointment as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Helping You Stay Active and Manage RA

Rheumatoid arthritis is a lifelong condition, but the right treatment plan can help many patients control inflammation, protect their joints, and maintain their independence.

At Springside Infusion, we understand that ongoing treatment is an important part of managing chronic disease.

Our team works closely with referring rheumatologists to coordinate prescribed infusion therapy while providing compassionate, patient-centered care.

If your rheumatologist has recommended infusion therapy for rheumatoid arthritis, contact Springside Infusion to learn whether our outpatient infusion center may be an option for your treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is infusion therapy recommended for rheumatoid arthritis?

Your rheumatologist may recommend a biologic infusion when conventional medications, such as methotrexate, have not adequately controlled your symptoms or disease activity. Treatment decisions depend on your individual medical history and response to previous therapies.

How often will I need rheumatoid arthritis infusions?

Treatment schedules vary depending on the medication. Some therapies are administered every four weeks, while others may be given every six to eight weeks or at longer intervals.

How quickly will I notice improvement?

Some patients experience improvement within several weeks, while others may need a few months to see the full benefit of treatment. Response times vary by medication and individual patient.

Will my insurance cover rheumatoid arthritis infusion therapy?

Many insurance plans cover medically necessary biologic infusion treatments. Prior authorization may be required. Springside Infusion works with your physician and insurance provider to help verify benefits and coordinate authorization requirements before treatment.