Provider Summary
Primary Uses
Rheumatoid arthritis (with methotrexate), psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis in adults per label/payer criteria.
Mechanism of Action
Anti‑TNF‑α monoclonal antibody reduces inflammatory signaling.
Pre-treatment / Baseline Requirement
Baseline TB testing and hepatitis B screening; baseline CBC and CMP/LFTs; review history of recurrent infections and heart failure; consider baseline dermatologic exam for skin cancer risk; review vaccination status; pregnancy status when applicable. Infusion reaction preparedness (premeds per ordering clinician). Review demyelinating disease history and heart failure risk.
Common side effects
Upper respiratory infection, infusion reactions, elevated liver enzymes.
Serious adverse effects / key risks
Boxed warning: serious infections and malignancy; TB reactivation; HBV reactivation; heart failure worsening; demyelinating disease; cytopenias; hypersensitivity
Referral requirements
Standard infusion referral form + drug-specific checklist
Patient & Caregiver Education
What it treats
Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis in adults
How it works
Blocks TNF (a key inflammatory signal) to reduce inflammation.
Before treatment
Tell your clinician if you have an active infection/fever, are pregnant/planning pregnancy, or have major heart/nerve problems. Depending on the medication, you may need labs or screening tests (e.g., TB/hepatitis) and a vaccine review.
Common side effects
Upper respiratory infection, infusion reactions, elevated liver enzymes.
Get urgent help for:
Boxed warning: serious infections and malignancy; TB reactivation; HBV reactivation; heart failure worsening; demyelinating disease; cytopenias; hypersensitivity.
On treatment Day:
Plan to stay for monitoring. If you feel dizzy, drowsy, or unwell afterward, do not drive and follow your clinician’s instructions.