Treatment of Myositis with IVIG in Columbia, MD

On your IVIG infusion day, there are several ways to ensure that the procedure runs as smoothly as possible.

• Hydrate well – It’s essential to be well hydrated on the day of your IVIG infusion. You should start drinking water, juice, or electrolyte drinks the day before your appointment, as well as steer clear of coffee or alcohol.
• Bring an activity to pass the time – Whether you want to take a nap, listen to a podcast, read a book, or play a mobile game, bringing an activity to keep yourself occupied during your IVIG infusion will make the time go by faster.
• Discuss numbing options – For those who have a fear of needles, EMLA cream or other topical numbing options are a great option. In addition, if you have experienced difficult IV starts, you can apply a warm pack to the veins before the healthcare professional inserts the needle. The heat will cause vasodilation and make it easier for the infusion to be started.
• Discuss pre-medications – If you often experience side effects from IVIG infusions, ask your healthcare provider about “pre-meds.” These medications are taken half an hour before an IVIG infusion to minimize potential side effects.
• Write down any questions you have – An open line of communication with your IVIG provider is important. As undergoing infusions can be nerve-wracking, our experts are here to make sure that you are well-supported and that your questions and concerns are addressed.

Myositis is a group of rare, chronic inflammatory muscle diseases that cause muscle weakness and inflammation. For many patients, IVIG has proven to be a safe, effective, and well-tolerated treatment option. IVIG can be used to address the symptoms of dermatomyositis, polymyositis, and, in some cases, body myositis. Patients receiving IVIG often report fewer side effects compared to other immunosuppressive therapies, making it a preferred option for long-term management.

IVIG infusions work by providing antibodies that can modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation and muscle damage. In cases of dermatomyositis and polymyositis, IVIG has shown significant benefits in reducing muscle weakness and improving overall muscle function.

Clinical studies have demonstrated that patients often experience a notable improvement in symptoms within a few weeks of starting IVIG therapy. For inclusion body myositis, which is typically more resistant to treatment, IVIG can still offer symptom relief and slow disease progression, although the response might not be as pronounced as in other forms of myositis.

IVIG therapy is generally well-tolerated and does not often interact with other medications. That being said, it’s crucial to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking to prevent unexpected interactions while receiving IVIG. While IVIG itself has a low risk of drug interactions, transparency about your medication regimen helps your healthcare team monitor for any potential issues and adjust dosages if necessary.

It’s also important to discuss any complementary treatments you may be considering or have recently used. Herbal remedies and other non-prescription treatments can sometimes affect the efficacy of IVIG or lead to unexpected side effects. For instance, certain herbs may have blood-thinning properties or influence your immune system in ways that could interfere with the efficacy of your IVIG infusion.

During your consultation session, the healthcare provider will offer guidance on whether your current medications and certain complementary treatments are safe to use alongside IVIG. They will thoroughly review your current medication regimen and inform you if any changes are required.

If you’re interested in learning more about IVIG infusions for myositis, the skilled professionals at Jean Walter Infusion in Columbia, MD, can explain the benefits and considerations of this approach. Our experts can determine if IVIG is right for you and explain how to prepare for your infusion. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 5500 Knoll North Dr, Suite 250A, Columbia, MD 21045. We serve patients from Columbia, MD, Ellicott City MD, Laurel MD, Clarksville MD, Fulton MD, and surrounding areas.