It is a monoclonal antibody that binds to human tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) receptor sites.

Indications: In management of active Crohn's disease in patients who have an inadequate response to conventional therapy; reduce the number of draining enterocutaneous fistulas in fistulizing disease; active rheumatoid arthritis and severe chronic plaque psoriasis.

Cautions: Hepatic impairment, renal impairment, monitor for infections before, during and for 6 months after treatment (Tuberculosis patients should be evaluated before treatment). Active tuberculosis should be treated with standard treatment for at least 2 months before starting infliximab), heart failure (discontinue if symptoms develop, or worsen, avoid in moderate or severe heart failure).

Contra-indications: in patients with history of active tuberculosis; serious infections such as sepsis, hepatitis, pneumonia, or pyelonephritis, pregnancy, breast feeding.

Side effect: hypersensitivity reactions including urticaria, dyspnea, and hypotension. Autoimmune antibodies and a lupus-like syndrome have been reported; hepatitis, diarrhea, constipation, cholecystitis, gastro-intestinal haemorrhage, flushing, bradycardia, arrhythmias, fatigue, anxiety, drowsiness, dizziness.

Dose: Crohn's disease, moderately to severely active: 5mg/kg as a single infusion over a minimum of 2 hours. In fistulizing: 5mg/kg as an infusion over a minimum of 2 hours; dose repeated after 2 and 6 weeks from initial infusion.