In our practice, we have been providing FDA approved intravenous therapies for immunologic and autoimmune disorders since 1999 when Remicade (infliximab), one of the original “biologics” was approved for the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Since then, numerous additional biologic agents and advanced therapies have been made available for chronic conditions including Systemic Lupus, Sjogren’s Syndrome, Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis, Osteoporosis, Ulcerative Colitis, and Multiple Sclerosis.
The Basics Of Biologics
Biologics are medications, usually composed of specialized proteins that act to modify physiologic processes in a very specific manner. These proteins act to modulate the body’s immune system and are genetically manufactured and processed to be used as a treatment to fight inflammation. Because most biologics are proteins, with few exceptions, they cannot be taken orally, or the body will digest them. Instead, they are administered by injection, either via an IV infusion or subcutaneous injection. Biologics are extremely effective and have dramatically improved the lives of many people impacted by autoimmune disorders. They are also quite safe and well tolerated. Side effects are minimal, but there are some cautions that must be kept in mind. Because they work by suppressing an overactive immune system, biologics can increase the risk for infection. They have also been associated with an increased risk for the development of lymphoma, a rare form of cancer. Other cancers, such as lung, breast, colon and other “solid tumors” are not associated with the use of biologic medications.
Infusion Center: Comfort & Privacy
In response to the needs of our patients, who were frustrated by hospital-based treatment units where delays are common and the setting often impersonal, we created our own comfortable and private Infusion Center. Located within our office, patients relax in private infusion rooms complete with recliner infusion chairs, wireless internet access, and cable TV. Our infusion nurse closely monitors patients. If you are currently working with another physician but would like to receive your treatment at our facility, we can collaborate with them.
The Following Is A List Of The Treatments We Currently Offer:
- Remicade (infliximab)
- Actemra (tocilizumab)
- Orencia (abatacept)
- Simponi Aria (golimumab)
- Rituxan (rituximab)
- Cimzia (certolizumab
- Intravenous Immune Globulin (gamma globulin)
- Reclast (zoledronic acid)
- Prolia (denosumab)
- Entyvio (vedolizumab)
- Tysabri (natalizumab)
- Krystexxa (pegloticase)
If you have questions about biologics, our Infusion Center, or any of the chronic conditions we treat, please call our office today at 914-235-5577.
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