Infusion Therapy: What to Know Before You Go

If you’re living with certain chronic conditions, you and your doctor may have discussed infusion medications as a treatment option.

Infusion treatment is the administration of medications—for instance, corticosteroids or biologics—directly into the bloodstream via a catheter inserted into a vein. Infusions may be helpful when oral medications aren’t working or aren’t a good option. This type of treatment is sometimes also called intravenous or IV therapy.

Infusions are typically given over one or more hours in an infusion center or other clinical setting, though it may be possible to have done at home with the aid of a registered nurse.