Infusions
TYSABRI is an infusion therapy. See important information about possible infusion-related reactions.
An infusion is a standard procedure that happens in an infusion center, a specially equipped doctor's office, or an infusion clinic within a hospital.
An infusion delivers a fluid (a medication or a solution) into a person's bloodstream. The fluid flows from a sterile bag through plastic tubing and a small needle into one of the person's veins and into the bloodstream.
Inserting a small needle into a vein is called the "intravenous" (IV) method. The process of IV infusion is a common and effective way of administering a medication over a specific period of time (for example, over a few hours).
Getting an infusion feels a little like having blood drawn out of a vein in your arm, except instead you're having fluid put into your vein.
How is a TYSABRI infusion different from a transfusion?
A transfusion, also called a blood transfusion, is a process in which blood or a blood product is delivered from a bag through plastic tubing into a person's vein or sometimes into an artery.
How often does TYSABRI need to be infused?
TYSABRI is infused into a vein once every 4 weeks, so you don't need to self-inject.
Where do TYSABRI infusions take place?
TYSABRI treatment may be infused right in your doctor's office if it is specially equipped for infusions and TOUCH authorized. If your doctor does not perform infusions, a Biogen Idec Case Manager can help find a TOUCH authorized infusion site that is convenient for you.
How do I arrange for an infusion?
After you and your doctor have decided TYSABRI is right for you and you have been enrolled in the TOUCH program, you can make an appointment at a TOUCH authorized infusion center. A Biogen Idec Case Manager can help you arrange your appointment or find an authorized infusion center.
How long does an infusion take?
Not counting your travel time and any administrative work required at the infusion site (including reviewing the Patient Medication Guide and the Pre-infusion Patient Checklist), the actual infusion takes about 1 hour. After the infusion, you will be observed for another hour to make sure you are not having a reaction that may require medical help.
What if I miss an infusion?
It depends on why the infusion was missed. If it was just a mistake (for example, you forgot your appointment), you should reschedule the infusion as soon as possible.
As part of TOUCH, if you did not qualify for the infusion according to the Pre-infusion Patient Checklist, your doctor will need to decide if you should have another TYSABRI infusion.
Should I wear any special clothing to my infusion?
Wear comfortable, layered clothing that you can adjust in case you become overly warm or cool. Bring along an extra sweater or blanket to have handy.
Can I talk, read, or sleep during my infusion?
It's really up to you to decide how to spend your infusion time. During treatment, you might like to:
- Have a friend stay with you to chat
- Read a book or flip through a magazine
- Do crossword or Sudoku puzzles
- Listen to music
- It's fine to fall asleep during your infusion
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