TNF (Infliximab)

Question 1

TNF (Infliximab): used to treat patients with…

Answer 1

• RA
• Crohn’s disease (that is not responding to conventional therapy)
• UC

Question 2

TNF (Infliximab): acts as a(n)…

Answer 2

Immunosuppressant

Question 3

How does TNF (Infliximab) affect Crohn’s Disease?

Answer 3

Induces and maintains remission of Crohn’s

Question 4

All patients on TNF (Infliximab) should also be on…

Answer 4

Methotrexate

Question 5

TNF (Infliximab) is contraindicated for what type of condition?

Answer 5

Any type of chronic condition

Question 6

What is the pt education for TNF (Infliximab)?

Answer 6

• The medication is very expensive
• They need TB and HBV testing prior to tx
• They cannot receive any live vaccines while on it
• Infusion reactions are common

Question 7

What are the common reactions to TNF (Infliximab)?

Answer 7

• Flu like symptoms
• Cardiopulmonary reactions (dyspnea/hypotension)
• Skin reactions, Uticaria (hives)
• GI disturbances

Question 8

To reduce infusion reaction symptoms, what should the pt pre-treat with?

Answer 8

• Antihistamine
• Acetaminophen
• Glucocorticoid

Question 9

TNF (Infliximab) should be used with extreme caution for patients with what conditions?

Answer 9

• HIV
• Diabetes (because of the increased risk of infection)
• Liver dysfunction
• Heart failure
• Pts taking other immunosuppressant drugs

Question 10

TNF (Infliximab): SFX?

Answer 10

• Bacterial sepsis
• Heart and/or liver failures
• Heme and/or neuro disorders
• Cancer (lymphoma)

Question 11

A pt taking TNF (Infliximab) presents with right-sided abdominal pain and mentions their urine has been dark/brown. What may this indicate?

Answer 11

Liver failure

Question 12

What are the s/s of a heme disorders for pts taking TNF (Infliximab)?

Answer 12

Persistent fever, bruising, bleeding and pallor