From the FDA Drug Label
Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Reactions – Cerebrovascular accidents, myocardial infarctions (some fatal), and arrhythmias have been reported during and within 24 hours of initiation of infliximab product infusion. The answer is yes, tachycardia (as an arrhythmia) is a potential side effect of Avsola (Infliximab-abda) infusion 1.
From the Research
Tachycardia can occur as a side effect during or after Avsola (infliximab-abda) infusions, and patients should be monitored closely for infusion-related reactions, including rapid heart rate, during and after the treatment. Avsola is a biosimilar to Remicade used to treat autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis. Infusion-related reactions, including tachycardia, typically happen during or within 2 hours after the infusion. If a patient experiences a racing heart during or after Avsola treatment, they should notify their healthcare provider immediately as this could indicate an infusion reaction. The provider may slow or stop the infusion and provide medications to manage the reaction. To reduce the risk of such reactions, the doctor might prescribe premedications like acetaminophen, antihistamines, or corticosteroids before the infusion. These reactions are more common during the first few infusions and in patients who have developed antibodies to infliximab. The mechanism behind these reactions involves the release of inflammatory mediators in response to the medication, which can affect heart rate and other vital signs.
Some studies have investigated the occurrence of arrhythmias during and after infusion of various medications, which can provide insight into the potential for tachycardia as a side effect of Avsola infusions. For example, a study on zoledronic acid infusion found that both supraventricular and ventricular premature complexes increased in cancer patients treated with the medication 2. Although this study is not directly related to Avsola, it highlights the potential for infusion-related reactions to affect heart rate.
In terms of managing tachycardia during Avsola infusions, the approach may involve slowing or stopping the infusion and administering medications to manage the reaction. The use of beta blockers, such as landiolol hydrochloride, has been shown to be effective in reducing heart rate in patients with supraventricular tachycardia 3. However, the specific management strategy will depend on the individual patient's condition and medical history.
Key points to consider:
- Tachycardia can occur as a side effect of Avsola infusions
- Patients should be monitored closely for infusion-related reactions, including rapid heart rate
- Premedications like acetaminophen, antihistamines, or corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce the risk of reactions
- The mechanism behind infusion reactions involves the release of inflammatory mediators, which can affect heart rate and other vital signs
- Management of tachycardia during Avsola infusions may involve slowing or stopping the infusion and administering medications to manage the reaction.