starting remicade

Vicky It will take some time the first infusion, probably 3-4 hours. Take something to occupy your time a book or ipod etc. If you recieve pre-mededication such as benydryl or steroids before the infusion you may be sleepy after. I'd recommend the night before you drink plenty of water or liquids other then caffine drinks. The same thing the morning of the infusion, this will help to keep a good blood volume in the veins and makes for an easier "stick". Most people don't have any problems but being tired afterward is probaby the most common one. For me I've been on remicade every 8 weeks for 3 years with out any side effects at all. Best of luck and please be sure to let us know how it goes for you. Rob

Just wanted to send good wishes that the Remicade does the trick for you! Hugs!

I hope it goes well. I was on it from 2002 until just recently with excellent results. I hope it works as well for you as it did for me.

The only thing I'd add is that it can take 3-4 infusions for the results to show up. You may notice some improvement in your symptoms within a few days of your first infusion, but don't worry if you don't. Usually the doctors won't consider even talking about that until you've had the loading doses and at least one or two of your regularly spaced infusions.

Other than that, ditto to what Grandpato2 says.