Feb, 20, 2025

Infusion Therapy: Benefits and Side Effects

Written by Lisa Siefert RPh, FASHP, ASQ-CMQ/OE

Table of Contents

Starting infusion therapy can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re worried about side effects. From treatments for ALS, Alzheimer’s disease, Crohn’s disease, and many others, infusions are designed to work by delivering medications directly into your bloodstream.

However, with the proper knowledge, you can feel prepared and confident going into treatment. This blog will walk you through the benefits and side effects of infusion therapy, how to manage side effects, and what to expect.

Benefits of Infusion Therapy

Rapid Medication Delivery

  • Infusion therapy provides immediate absorption of medications directly into the bloodstream
  • Allows for the quick onset of therapeutic effects, which is crucial for critical or time-sensitive treatments

Precise Dosage Control

  • Enables monitoring of narrow therapeutic medication management of medication levels in the body
  • Provides a flexible method of dose delivery

Nutritional Support

  • Allows direct administration of fluids and essential nutrients for patients unable to eat or drink normally
  • Helps maintain electrolyte balance and prevent dehydration

Reduced Gastrointestinal Side Effects

  • Bypasses the digestive tract, minimizing stomach-related medication side effects
  • Can be more comfortable for patients with sensitive digestive systems

Faster Absorption

  • Provides direct and potent treatment
  • Can offer more immediate symptom relief compared to oral medications

Long-Term Treatment Management

  • Useful for ongoing treatments requiring consistent medication levels
  • Allows for infusion therapy at an infusion center or home, reducing hospital stays

What Are the Side Effects of Infusion Therapy?

Infusion therapy is an effective treatment, but like any medical procedure, it can come with potential side effects. These effects vary based on the medication type, your medical history, and the conditions being treated. Most side effects are mild and temporary, but some may require medical attention.

Common Side Effects

  • Fatigue: It’s normal to feel tired after treatment as your body adjusts to the medication.
  • Nausea or upset stomach: Certain therapies can affect the digestive system.
  • Changes in blood pressure: Some treatments may cause low or high blood pressure, leading to dizziness or lightheadedness.
  • Allergic reactions: This could include itching, rash, or, in more serious cases, difficulty breathing.
  • Heart rate fluctuations: Some medications can temporarily speed up or slow down your heart rate.

Injection or Insertion Site Reactions

  • Pain, swelling, or redness around the IV insertion site.
  • Bruising may occur where the needle was placed, especially if it’s a long session.

Less Common Side Effects

  • Weakened immune system from medications that suppress immune responses.

Your healthcare team will monitor you during and after treatment to manage any side effects promptly. Always communicate with them if you feel anything unusual during your session.

Managing Side Effects During and After Infusion Treatment

Managing side effects starts with preparation. Here are some tips to help you feel better during and after your infusion:

Share Your Medical History

Tell your care team about your medical history before starting treatment. Certain conditions, like heart disease or allergies, may increase the risk of side effects.

Monitor Your Heart Rate and Blood Pressure

Infusion treatments can sometimes affect your heart rate or blood pressure. Your care team will check these during treatment, but let them know if you feel dizzy, faint, or notice a rapid heartbeat.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water before and after treatment can help minimize nausea and dizziness. It also makes it easier for the nurse to find a vein for the IV.

Pay Attention to the Insertion Site

Some people experience pain or swelling at the injection site. If you notice redness, swelling, or pain, please contact your care team to assess for complications.

Allergic Reactions and What to Do

Although rare, allergic reactions can happen during infusion therapy. Symptoms include:

  • Rash or itching
  • Swelling of the face or throat
  • Trouble breathing

If you experience these symptoms, alert your medical professionals immediately. They are trained to handle allergic reactions quickly and safely.

A smiling young man on the phone while getting an infusion

Long-Term Side Effects

Most side effects go away shortly after treatment, but some patients may experience long-term effects depending on the medication and their medical conditions. For example:

  • Weakened Immune System: Some infusion treatments may weaken the immune system over time.
  • Nerve Damage: Certain medications may lead to peripheral neuropathy, which causes long-lasting numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet.
  • Bone Density Loss: Long-term infusion treatments, especially those involving steroids, can reduce bone density, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.

Staying in touch with your healthcare team helps you manage these risks and adjust your treatment plan if needed.

How Our Healthcare Team Supports Infusion Treatments

Healthcare professionals play a significant role in managing your infusion therapy. Your Soleo care team will:

  • Make sure your treatment plan and medications are tailored to your needs
  • Monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and other vital signs during treatment
  • Watch for signs of allergic reactions and provide immediate care if needed
  • Offer guidance on managing discomfort at the insertion site or injection site
  • Adjust your treatment plan if you experience severe or long-term side effects
  • Educate you on self-administration of your medication and how to manage your condition

The Bottom Line

While the side effects of infusion therapy can seem concerning, knowing the benefits of infusion therapy and what to expect helps you feel more prepared. Your healthcare professionals will monitor your progress closely and guide you through the process.

With proper preparation and support, most people handle infusion therapy well and experience benefits that far outweigh the potential side effects. From managing blood pressure and heart rate changes to watching for reactions at the insertion site, staying informed is the key to a positive treatment experience.

By working closely with your care team and sharing your medical history, you’ll be better equipped to manage any side effects. Infusion therapy can make a big difference in treating medical conditions and improving your quality of life, one treatment at a time.

Have questions about infusion therapy? Contact our team to learn more about how we can support your treatment journey.