What is Rheumatology Infusion Therapy?

For patients managing certain medical conditions, oral medication isn’t always the only treatment option.  

Infusion therapy delivers medicine intravenously through an IV, and because infusion therapy bypasses the digestive system and enters the bloodstream directly, it can lead to faster symptom relief and higher absorption rates. 

Read on to learn more about all the different conditions infusion therapy treats, what appointments are like, and how much it costs.  

What conditions can be treated with infusion therapy?

You might be surprised to learn just how many conditions infusion therapy can help treat or manage, including:

• Rheumatologic disorders 
• Allergic disorders 
• Asthma 
• Bone disorders 
• Dermatologic (skin) conditions 
• Eye disorders 
• Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders 
• Immune system disorders 
• Iron deficiency and related conditions 
• Neurologic conditions, including multiple sclerosis (MS) and migraines 

Additional infusion treatments may include IV fluid administration (fluid bolus) and steroid infusions.

While this list covers many common uses for infusion therapy, it is not exhaustive. Infusion therapy can also help manage a variety of other rheumatic, inflammatory, digestive, neurological, and dermatological conditions.

Learn more about the conditions treated and the services available at the OSMS Rheumatology Center’s private infusion therapy suites. 

Are there other reasons for using infusion therapy?

Rheumatologists (doctors who specialize in rheumatic illnesses) may recommend infusion therapy for several reasons, including when: 

• Oral medications aren’t effective 
• The patient can’t take medications orally 
• Medication must be administered on a strictly controlled or timed dose 
• The needed medication is only available in an infusion form 

What kind of doctor administers infusion therapy?

Our board-certified, fellowship-trained rheumatologists partner with our registered nurses, medical assistants, and licensed practical nurses to provide treatment. They are all experts in administering infusion therapy medicines.  

What types of medications are used in infusion therapy?

Many of the medicines used in infusion therapy are biologics. These medications help slow or stop the inflammation that damages joints and organs in arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. The types of biologics are:  

1. Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF) Inhibitors  
2. B-Cell Inhibitors 
3. Interleukin Inhibitors 
4. T-Cell Co-Stimulation Modulators 
5. BAFF Inhibitors 
6. Interferon Receptor Inhibitors 
7. Other nonbiologic/targeted therapies 

Every patient is different. During your first consultation with your OSMS rheumatologist, they will review your medical history and symptoms to determine which medication is best for you. Sometimes, the treatment team will combine medications to achieve the ideal outcome.  

What is a typical infusion appointment like?

When you arrive at OSMS for your infusion therapy appointment, you will be greeted by our friendly front desk staff. Next, you’ll be called back for your appointment and escorted to a semi-private infusion suite where you can relax during your treatment. Blankets, pillows, and snacks are always on hand to keep you comfortable. 

A nurse will take your vital signs before and after your infusion. If you’re nervous about getting an IV, please don’t worry. Our experienced nurses do their best to get your IV on the first try. You will feel a slight pinch when the needle is inserted, but the infusion itself should be painless. 

During your infusion appointment, you can do whatever you like. Watch TV, scroll on your phone (on our free Wi-Fi), do a short craft, close your eyes to rest, or eat a snack. Each suite has visitor chairs, so feel free to bring a friend or family member to your appointment if you like.  

How much does infusion therapy cost?

Infusion therapy at OSMS typically costs 30 to 50% less than the same treatment at a hospital. That’s because we don’t charge facility fees or carry the high overhead costs that hospitals do. We know infusion therapy is an ongoing commitment, so we work hard to keep your costs as low as possible. 

Can children receive infusion therapy?

Yes! Infusion therapy can be an effective treatment option for children managing certain chronic conditions. Watch Lily’s “I’m Back” story to learn more about her experience with infusion therapy. 

Do I need a referral for infusion therapy?

You may require a referral for infusion therapy, especially if your condition isn’t related to a rheumatologic condition. Your referring physician will help coordinate your care, but we also recommend checking with your insurance provider.  

Is infusion therapy right for you?

Schedule an appointment with one of our rheumatologists online. We’ll take the time to get to know you, from your medical history and symptoms to lifestyle and goals, then help you decide if infusion therapy is the right fit.

This blog was originally published on September 29, 2020 and was updated on November 13, 2026.

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