Lupus Infusion Centers

Interested in Scheduling a Treatment for Lupus at a Novella Infusion Center?

What is Lupus?

Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system damages the organs and tissues throughout the body. Common symptoms include fever, rash and joint pain, as well as in some cases, fatigue, muscle aches, and weight loss. Lupus causes inflammation that can affect the skin, joints, blood and organs, including the kidneys, lungs, and heart. Biologic infusions for lupus can help patients to manage their symptoms and reduce how often they experience flare-ups.

How Lupus is Managed Through Novella Infusion Therapy

Moderate to severe lupus symptoms can be managed through doctor recommended infusion treatments at an outpatient facility like Novella Infusion. The treatments for lupus are provided intravenously through a small catheter placed in the vein. Patients who receive infusion therapy at Novella Infusion usually have reduced symptoms and flare ups when treatments are maintained. Infusion therapy is a strong alternative for lupus patients who cannot tolerate oral medications due to gastrointestinal side effects.

Novella Infusion Therapies for Lupus

What to Expect at my Lupus Infusion

Lupus infusions at Novella use a very thin catheter to connect an IV line from the medication to one of the patient’s veins. All Novella locations have a Nurse Practitioner on site and the patient is monitored continuously throughout treatment for any negative reactions. Patients can expect a lupus infusion to last anywhere from 25 minutes to several hours. After the IV treatment for lupus is complete, the patient is disconnected from the medication by the nurse. In some cases, the patient is asked to stay on site for a short time post-treatment for observation.

How to Prepare for my Lupus Infusion

Please ask your physician if any temporary medical conditions, such as a cold or the flu, should prevent you from receiving your infusion.

Drink plenty of water. Being well hydrated will make it easier to start your IV.

Avoid excessive amounts of coffee, as it can be dehydrating.

Bring a list of current medications you are taking.

Wear comfortable clothes.

Because some visits may be rather long, you may bring books or one friend to chat with. We have light snacks, Wi-Fi and tablets available on site.

Due to the nature of the drugs administered, small children are not permitted.

If you have any additional questions about your upcoming visit, please call your local Novella infusion center.

Resources for Patients Living with Lupus

Lupus Foundation of America (Lupus.org)
My IGSource (my IGSource.com)