What is Infusion Therapy?

Infusion therapy is an alternative to oral treatment. It is prescribed when a patient is suffering from a serious condition that cannot be treated successfully by oral medications. Certain drugs cannot be taken orally because they lose their effectiveness when exposed to the digestive system. Infusion therapy is useful in these cases, or in cases where the oral medication is not readily available. This process also allows for controlled dosing, which is when medications need to be distributed slowly into the bloodstream. Infusion therapy can treat a wide assortment of rare and chronic diseases, as well as administer prescription drugs like antibiotics, antifungals, and more. Infusion therapy can be used to deliver medication for several digestive health conditions, and if this is the right treatment path for you, our physicians will ensure that you understand every step of the process.

What Conditions are Treated with Infusion Therapy in New Jersey? 

Conditions that usually require this type of therapy include infections that are not responsive to oral antibiotics, cancer, and certain gastrointestinal diseases. Infusion therapy is usually prescribed when a case of inflammatory bowel disease is moderate to severe. The purpose of this treatment method is to reduce flare-ups and symptoms, as well as improve the patient’s quality of life. Medications utilized for IBD are often focused on neutralizing inflammation. At DHC, we utilize infusion therapy to treat:

How Should I Prepare for Infusion Therapy?

Preparation for an infusion therapy appointment depends upon the type of treatment you are receiving. Your doctor will provide specific information about your appointment and how long your treatment will last, as well as anything you need to do to prepare. We encourage you to ask any questions you have both before and during your appointment – we strive to ensure that patients are fully informed about all steps taken as part of their care at DHC. You should also let your physician know about any medications you are taking. We recommend that you wear comfortable clothing to your infusion therapy appointment and make time in your schedule to rest afterward. Many patients choose to bring a book, magazine, or another hobby to pass the time.

Procedure Prep Instructions

How is Infusion Therapy Administered at Digestive Healthcare Center?

Infusion therapy involves the administration of medications intravenously through a needle or catheter. In some instances, it can also be provided through other non-oral avenues, such as intramuscular injections or epidurals. The needle is attached to a small tube, which is connected to an IV bag containing the necessary medication. You will be monitored by a member of our team to ensure that the medication is being delivered properly and that you are comfortable throughout the entire process. The duration of the treatment depends on the medication and your specific condition. You may be encouraged to remain hydrated throughout the process, and you will be able to use the restroom if needed. 

If performed in a hospital, infusion therapy can be expensive and patients are at a greater risk for infection. At Digestive Healthcare Center (DHC), we can reduce costs, save time, and increase patient satisfaction by having the ability to perform this procedure in-office. When you visit our Hillsborough office and surgical center for your infusion therapy appointment, we will ensure that you are as comfortable as possible and that all of your questions are answered. 

What are the Possible Risks of Infusion Therapy?

As infusion therapy requires the insertion of an IV needle, there may be an occasional difficulty for those with smaller veins. Repeated infusions can cause the accumulation of scar tissue. Individual risks may be associated with different types of medication. Your doctor at DHC will explain the potential risks and side effects before your appointment. 

Infusion Therapy in Somerset County, New Jersey

If you have a digestive health condition that requires treatment through infusion therapy, please make an appointment at our Hillsborough office and surgical center by calling 908-218-9222. Our nurses and physicians will work with you to ensure that you receive the proper care and treatment for whatever gastrointestinal issue you are facing.

Infusion Therapy Near Me in NJ

At DHC, we perform infusion therapy for inflammatory bowel disease in NJ using the following medications: Remicade, Entyvio, and Cimzia. We also use this form of therapy for regular fluid infusions, since most of our patients that require this treatment suffer from dehydration. Our entire care team provides an ongoing assessment and evaluation during your treatment and includes an infusion nurse who is specialized in intravenous therapies. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.