Biologic infusions ยท St. Louis
Biologic Infusions for Rheumatologic Conditions in St. Louis
We give biologic infusions in St. Louis for rheumatoid arthritis and other rheumatologic conditions, on the drug and schedule your rheumatologist orders. Your rheumatologist manages the disease; we give the infusion in a monitored chair, watch you through it, and send the record back.
A biologic is a drug made from living cells that targets one piece of the immune attack, such as a single inflammatory signal. Many are given by IV on a fixed schedule, every few weeks or months. Miss the schedule and the inflammation comes back, so the practical problem is often not the drug but getting a chair on the right week.
Which conditions are biologic infusions used for?
- Rheumatoid arthritis.
- Psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.
- Lupus and other autoimmune conditions your rheumatologist treats with an infused biologic.
The diagnosis and the choice of drug belong to your rheumatologist. We give what is ordered.
How does a biologic infusion visit work?
- Before the first dose. We confirm the order and the prior authorization. Most biologics need screening tests, such as a tuberculosis test, before the first dose; your rheumatologist orders those and we confirm they are done.
- Premedication. Some orders include an antihistamine, acetaminophen or a steroid before the infusion to lower the chance of a reaction.
- The infusion. Biologic infusions often run one to several hours. Vital signs are checked before, during and after.
- Observation. First doses usually carry a longer watch period afterward.
What reactions do we watch for?
Infusion reactions show up as flushing, itching, chills, a headache, or a drop or spike in blood pressure, usually during the infusion. Slowing or pausing the drip handles most of them. Staff stay with you, and a physician directs every infusion. Between doses, tell your rheumatologist and us about any fever or new infection: these drugs dampen the immune system, and a dose may need to wait.
Coverage is checked before your first infusion. Many infusions, biologics in particular, need prior authorization from your plan. An approval is not a promise of payment; your plan still decides each claim.
Questions patients ask
How long does a biologic infusion take?
Anywhere from about an hour to several hours, depending on the drug and whether it is your first dose. We give you the expected time when we schedule. See what to expect.
Can you go to the bathroom during an infusion?
Yes. The IV bag hangs on a rolling pole that goes with you, or the nurse pauses the pump for a few minutes. More on infusion day.
Does my rheumatologist need to send anything?
Yes: the order, recent notes and the prior authorization if your plan requires one. Their office can use our referral page.
What not to do after a biologic infusion?
Skip any live vaccine unless your rheumatologist clears it, and call before your next dose if you develop a fever or infection. Most people return to normal activity the same day. See aftercare.