IV therapy is one of the emerging and effective treatments for arthritis. Research shows it may offer fast relief and serve as a very effective method to manage the symptoms linked to the arthritis. In this article, we would discuss how IV therapy works for arthritis and the possible side effects linked to it.

Is IV therapy effective against arthritis?

Yes, science shows IV therapy may be very effective at improving the symptoms associated with different types of arthritis. Some of the commonly reported IV infusions for arthritis include but are not limited to Rituximab, ascorbic acid, golimumab and dexamethasone. The biologic agent in these medications targets specific immune cells involved in the inflammatory process, helping to reduce joint inflammation and slow disease progression. Rituximab IV therapy has been shown to effectively manage Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) symptoms and improve quality of life for many individuals.

For individuals with RA who have found little relief from conventional oral medications, IV therapy provides a viable alternative. IV therapy delivers medications directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system, which can enhance drug absorption and efficacy. This targeted delivery method allows for higher concentrations of medications to reach the affected joints, potentially providing more effective symptom relief.

The duration of relief provided by IV therapy for RA can vary depending on individual response and disease severity. Some individuals may experience relief from symptoms for six months to a year following treatment. However, the frequency and duration of infusion therapy sessions may need to be adjusted based on ongoing disease activity and treatment response.

Benefits of IV therapy for arthritis

IV therapy can offer several potential benefits for individuals with arthritis:

• Direct Delivery of Medications: IV therapy allows for the direct delivery of medications into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. This method ensures rapid absorption and distribution of medications to target areas, providing quicker relief from arthritis symptoms.
• High Concentration of Medications: IV therapy allows for the administration of medications at higher concentrations than oral medications, which may result in more potent and effective pain relief and inflammation reduction.
• Customized Formulations: IV therapy formulations can be customized to include medications, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants tailored to address the specific needs of individuals with arthritis. This personalized approach ensures that treatment targets both symptoms and underlying disease processes.
• Reduced Gastrointestinal Side Effects: Since medications administered through IV therapy bypass the digestive system, individuals with arthritis who may experience gastrointestinal side effects from oral medications may find relief with IV therapy.
• Longer Lasting Relief: IV therapy can provide longer-lasting relief from arthritis symptoms compared to oral medications, as the effects of intravenous medications can persist for an extended period after the infusion is complete.
• Decreased Dependency on Oral Medications: For individuals who have difficulty tolerating oral medications or experience inadequate pain relief, IV therapy offers an alternative route of medication administration that may reduce reliance on oral medications.
• Potential Disease Modification: Some medications used in IV therapy for arthritis, such as biologic agents, may not only alleviate symptoms but also slow disease progression and prevent joint damage.
• Improved Quality of Life: By effectively managing arthritis symptoms, IV therapy can improve overall quality of life by reducing pain, stiffness, and inflammation, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities with greater ease and comfort.
• Support for Joint Health: IV therapy formulations may include nutrients and antioxidants that support joint health and cartilage integrity, helping to prevent further degeneration and improve joint function over time.
• Complementary Therapy: IV therapy can complement other arthritis treatments, such as physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle modifications, providing a comprehensive approach to arthritis management.

Side effects of IV therapy for arthritis

• Infusion Site Reactions: Discomfort, redness, or swelling at the site where the IV is inserted are common side effects of IV therapy. These reactions are typically mild and temporary but may persist for a short period after the infusion is complete.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to components of the IV solution or medications administered during therapy. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis. It’s essential to monitor for signs of an allergic reaction and seek prompt medical attention if any occur.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Certain medications used in IV therapy for arthritis may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and vomiting. These symptoms are usually mild and can be managed with supportive care or adjustments to the IV formulation.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of IV therapy and may occur during or after the infusion. This side effect is often mild and transient but may require medication or supportive measures for relief.
• Fluctuations in Blood Pressure: IV therapy can sometimes cause fluctuations in blood pressure, leading to symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness. Healthcare providers monitor blood pressure closely during IV therapy sessions and adjust the infusion rate as needed to minimize this risk.
• Electrolyte Imbalances: IV therapy can affect electrolyte levels in the body, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium. Imbalances in these electrolytes can lead to symptoms like muscle cramps, weakness, irregular heartbeat, or confusion. Healthcare providers monitor electrolyte levels closely during IV therapy to prevent imbalances.
• Infection: There is a slight risk of infection at the injection site or along the vein where the IV is placed. Healthcare providers take precautions to minimize this risk by using sterile equipment and proper insertion techniques.
• Rare Complications: In rare cases, more serious complications such as vein irritation, blood clots, or damage to surrounding tissues may occur. These complications are uncommon but may require medical attention if they occur.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

Benefits of IV Infusion Therapy. https://arthritisjax.com/blog/benefits-iv-infusion-therapy/. Accessed 2/19/2024.

Arti, H., Mousapour, A., & Alavi, S. M. (2014). The effect of intravenous dexamethasone in the treatment of septic arthritis. Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences, 30(5), 955-957. https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.305.5217

Broadwell, A., Schechtman, J., Conaway, D. et al. Effectiveness and safety of intravenous golimumab with and without concomitant methotrexate in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in the prospective, noninterventional AWARE study. BMC Rheumatol 7, 5 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41927-023-00329-8

Curtis, J. R., Chakravarty, S. D., Black, S., Kafka, S., Xu, S., Langholff, W., Parenti, D., Greenspan, A., & Schwartzman, S. (2021). Incidence of Infusion Reactions and Clinical Effectiveness of Intravenous Golimumab Versus Infliximab in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: The Real-World AWARE Study. Rheumatology and Therapy, 8(4), 1551-1563. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40744-021-00354-4

Weinblatt ME, Bingham CO, Mendelsohn AM, et al. Intravenous golimumab is effective in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis despite methotrexate therapy with responses as early as week 2: results of the phase 3, randomised, multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled GO-FURTHER trial Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases 2013;72:381-389.