Home Infusion for Crohn's Disease: Remicade, Biologics, and What Patients Should Know

For many patients with moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease, biologic therapies delivered by IV infusion , most commonly Remicade (infliximab) , are a cornerstone of long-term disease management. Receiving these infusions through home infusion therapy is an option for many stable patients, sparing them repeated trips to an infusion center. Pharmko coordinates this care across 23 states.

How Remicade (Infliximab) Works for Crohn's Disease

Remicade is a monoclonal antibody that targets tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a protein central to the inflammatory response in Crohn's disease. By neutralizing TNF-α, it reduces intestinal inflammation, helps heal the lining of the bowel, and can achieve and maintain clinical remission in patients who have not responded to conventional therapies.

It is given on a schedule determined by your gastroenterologist , typically at weeks 0, 2, and 6 for induction, followed by maintenance infusions every 8 weeks. For a broader comparison of home infusion approaches vs. clinical settings, see our safety guide.

Other IV Biologics Used in Crohn's Disease

While Remicade is most commonly prescribed, others may be used depending on the patient's disease course:

• Entyvio (vedolizumab) , targets gut-specific integrin receptors, with a favorable long-term safety profile
• Tysabri (natalizumab) , used in select cases when other therapies have failed

Your gastroenterologist will determine which biologic is most appropriate for your situation.

Can You Receive Remicade Infusions at Home?

Yes, for many patients. Home infusion of Remicade and other IV biologics is well established, though it requires a few prerequisites: the patient must have received at least their first one to three infusions in a supervised clinical setting to screen for reactions, and must be on a stable maintenance dose.

For patients transitioning from hospital-based infusions, our hospital-to-home transition guide covers what to expect during the changeover and what Pharmko handles on your behalf.

What a Home Remicade Infusion Looks Like

Before the infusion

A Pharmko nurse reviews your current medications, confirms you have no active infections, and takes baseline vital signs. Pre-medications may be administered per your physician's orders to reduce the risk of infusion reactions.

During the infusion

The infusion runs over approximately 2 hours. Your nurse monitors your vital signs at regular intervals and is present to respond immediately if you experience any discomfort or reaction.

After the infusion

Your nurse documents the session and communicates with your gastroenterologist's office. Review which symptoms to watch for in the hours and days following the infusion , and save the number for our 24/7 after-hours support team before your first dose.

Insurance Coverage for Home Remicade Infusions

Remicade is covered by most commercial insurance plans and Medicare Part B under a medical benefit when administered by a licensed provider. Prior authorization is required. Pharmko handles the authorization process and will notify you of any coverage concerns before your first home infusion.

→ Contact Pharmko to start a referral: 1-877-549-3863