Apr, 24, 2025

Why Do People Get Infusion Treatments?

Written by Aubrey Hersch, PharmD

Infusion treatments help people with rare and chronic conditions. This therapy works better than pills for many patients. It delivers medicine directly into your bloodstream. This means faster relief and better results.

What is Infusion Therapy?

Infusion therapy puts medicine directly into your blood. A nurse uses a needle or small tube (called an IV). This method has many benefits:

  • Medicine works faster
  • Easier on your stomach
  • Works when pills don’t help
  • Great for emergencies

Conditions Treated with Infusion Therapy

Many health problems respond well to infusion therapy. Here are some common ones:

Immune System Problems
Bleeding Disorders
Inflammatory Conditions
  • Gout
  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Ulcerative Colitis
Brain and Nerve Conditions
Eye Problems
Immune Deficiencies

Talk to your prescriber to see if infusion therapy is right for you.

We recommend consulting with your healthcare provider to determine if infusion therapy is appropriate for your condition.

Types of Infusion Therapy

Most infusions go through an IV in your arm. But there are different types:

  • Antibiotic infusions – Fight serious infections
  • Epidural infusions – Help with pain
  • Immune globulin therapy – Boost your immune system

All infusions have the same goals:

  • Give medicine on schedule
  • Skip the digestive system
  • Help when swallowing is hard

What to Expect During Infusion Therapy

Before Your Appointment

Ask your doctor these questions:

  • How long will my treatment take?
  • Can I eat before coming in?
  • Who will give me the treatment?
  • What side effects might happen?
Items to Bring

Make yourself comfortable during treatment:

  • Wear loose clothes with easy arm access
  • Bring a book, tablet, or headphones
  • Bring water (though most centers have drinks)
  • Bring your medicine list

Ask a friend or family member to come with you. They can also help with rides home.

Your Care Team

Many people will help with your treatment:

  • Doctors who know your condition
  • Patient care staff to support you
  • Insurance specialists to help with costs
  • Pharmacists to manage your medicines
  • Nurses to give your treatment

Soleo Health has 30+ specialty pharmacies and infusion centers across all 50 states, and national nursing coverage. We can care for you no matter where you live.

Potential Side Effects of Infusion Therapy

While many patients tolerate infusion therapy well, side effects can occur, ranging from mild discomfort to more serious reactions requiring medical attention.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor
  • What side effects should I watch for?
  • Who should I contact if I experience symptoms that are concerning?
  • Are there medications to manage infusion related and post-treatment discomfort?

Common Infusion Therapy Side Effects to Monitor

Most people handle infusion therapy well. But side effects can happen. They range from mild to serious.

Mild Symptoms:

  • Redness or swelling where the needle goes in
  • Feeling tired
  • Mild nausea
  • Face flushing
  • Muscle or joint pain

More Serious Symptoms that require immediate medical attention:

  • Allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching)
  • Fever or chills
  • Trouble breathing
  • Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
  • Chest pain
  • Confusion
  • Bad vomiting or diarrhea

Always tell your healthcare team about any symptoms. They need to know how you’re feeling.

Infusion Therapy Aftercare

Your care continues after each treatment. Your team will watch your progress. They may change your treatment plan as needed.

Follow-up Questions to Ask Your Doctor
  • How often will I need infusions?
  • What tests will track my progress?
  • Should I change my lifestyle?
For optimal recovery after any infusion treatment:
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Rest and avoid hard exercise
  • Eat light, easy-to-digest meals
  • Use cold packs for swelling
  • Use warm packs for bruising
  • Don’t drink alcohol
  • Watch for unusual symptoms
  • Keep your doctor’s phone number handy

Implementing an Infusion Therapy Routine

Understanding your long-term treatment plan is essential for success with infusion therapy. Discuss with your doctor:

  • How often do you need treatment
  • How long will therapy last
  • How will progress be tracked

Home Infusion Therapy Services

If getting to a center is hard, you might get treatment at home. This works well for people with:

  • Long-term treatment needs
  • Trouble getting around
  • Transportation problems

A registered nurse can provide professional infusion therapy in your home, maintaining the same quality of care while offering greater convenience.

Note: You must meet clinical requirements. Your doctor and Soleo Health must approve home treatment.

Finding an Infusion Therapy Center

Most infusion centers are designed for outpatient treatment. They’re designed to be comfortable and stress-free.

At Soleo Health, we meet you wherever you are. This might be at our infusion centers or in your home. Our comprehensive services ensure a smooth and successful treatment experience.

With the right support and preparation, you can feel confident about infusion treatments. Our team is committed to providing exceptional care designed for your unique needs.

Ready for your infusion? Schedule an appointment today.