Myasthenia Gravis Infusion Centers

With local infusion centers across the country, Myasthenia Gravis patients requiring ongoing biologic infusions or injections relax in privacy and comfort during treatment.

Intentionally designed for Myasthenia Gravis patients.

Private Suites

Guaranteed for all patients, with leather recliners and chairs for guests

On Your Schedule

Local centers offer flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends

Goodbye Waiting

Greeted by name at check-in, patient suites are always ready when you arrive

Sit Back and Relax

In-room streaming options so you can catch up on your favorite shows

Caring for those with Myasthenia Gravis.

Simply put, patients with Myasthenia Gravis who need ongoing infusion or injection treatment deserve better options for when, where and how they receive care.

Located in the communities where people live and work, IVX Health serves those with complex chronic conditions like Myasthenia Gravis by delivering high-quality, personalized care in a private, comfortable setting so patients can continue to live their best lives.

What is Myasthenia Gravis?

Myasthenia gravis is a condition causing weakness and rapid fatigue of muscles you are typically able to control. Breakdowns and abnormalities in the usual communication between nerves and muscles cause myasthenia gravis and its symptoms.

How is Myasthenia Gravis Diagnosed and Treated?

Myasthenia gravis can often to be difficult to diagnose and you may need to complete several tests before receiving a diagnosis.

The primary test used is a blood test to determine the levels of an antibody that stops signals between nerves and muscles present in the bloodstream. Nerve test can also be used to examine if signals between nerves and muscles are being disrupted. These nerve tests are called electromyography and involve inserting small needles into the muscles to measure electrical activity, or signaling between nerves and muscles.

There is often an association between enlarged thymus glands in the chest and myasthenia gravis, so healthcare providers may also conduct a CT or MRI scan of the chest.

There is no cure for myasthenia gravis, but treatments can be used to prevent escalation or lessen symptoms. Treatment plans may differ depending on your age, condition severity, and speed of progression.

Some common treatments include medications that enhance signaling or inhibit the immune system, surgery, or IV therapies.

How Does IV Infusion Therapy for Myasthenia Gravis Work?

IV infusion for myasthenia gravis involves administering medication through an infusion pump that drips the medication into a catheter to a syringe and through a hollow needle into the patient’s bloodstream. Dosage and frequency of infusion will depend on the therapy and the patient.

Myasthenia Gravis Therapies Administered at IX Health

The following infusion and injection therapies are administered at IVX Health.

Myasthenia Gravis Management at IVX Health

Each IVX Health patient receives excellent care from Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners (ARNPs) and Registered Nurses (RNs).

The benefits of receiving infusion treatments for myasthenia gravis at IVX Health include:

  • Private suites
  • Comfortable, leather recliners
  • Enough room and plenty of seating for guests
  • A friendly clinical staff
  • Personalized service
  • High-speed internet
  • Complimentary beverages and snacks
  • Flat-screen television sets provide a way for patients to stream their favorite movies and watch the shows they love
  • Flexible scheduling options (including evening and weekend appointments)

What to Expect During Infusion Treatment of Myasthenia Gravis

Step One

Using a thin, very small catheter, one of IVX Health’s nurses creates an intravenous line (aka IV line) into the patient’s arm vein.

Step Two

After placing the IV line, the nurse connects it to tubing that leads up to the medication. The medication is then dispersed into the patient’s bloodstream over a specified period of time.

During treatment, patients are continuously monitored by one of IVX’s nurses. If a patient requires assistance, he or she just needs to press the call button.

There are times when a patient experiences a reaction to the medication he or she is receiving; therefore, patients need to recognize the symptoms associated with an allergic reaction.

Signs of a potential allergic reaction include developing a headache, feeling nauseous, difficulty breathing and developing a rash. Patients experiencing these symptoms need to contact their nurse right away.

How to Get a Referral for Myasthenia Gravis IV Infusion Treatment

Every referral must be accompanied by an order for treatment.

Patient information should include:

  • Name
  • Current address
  • Home and mobile phone number
  • Insurance information

Information the physician must include on the patient’s order for IV therapy to treat myasthenia gravis include:

  • Patient’s name and DOB
  • Order date
  • Diagnosis
  • Physician’s name and NPI#
  • Office address, phone, and fax numbers
  • Provider’s signature

Supporting clinical documentation from the physician should include:

Soliris:

  • Patient has been immunized with meningococcal vaccines at least 2 weeks prior to administering the first dose of Soliris
  • Clinicals to support one or more of the following:
    • Patient has Paraxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH)
    • Patient has atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS)
    • Patient has anti-AChR+ generalized Myasthenia Gravis (gMG)
    • Patient has anti-AQP4 Antibody-Positive Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD)

Vyvgart:

  • Supporting clinicals that show the patient is AChR antibody positive

Due to the complexity of treatment, prior authorization is often required. Prior authorization is the process of getting approval for treatment from the patient’s healthcare provider before beginning treatment. It’s important to check in with your healthcare provider to see if a prior authorization will be needed for your infusion or injection treatment at IVX Health.

If you have myasthenia gravis, and you would like to learn more about the IV infusion therapy for myasthenia gravis available at IVX Health centers, contact us today.

What is Myasthenia Gravis?

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that leads to muscle weakness and rapid fatigue. When the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, it specifically targets the acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, preventing muscle contraction. This results in varying degrees of muscle weakness affecting different parts of the body. Common symptoms include drooping eyelids, double vision, difficulty swallowing, and impaired speech. The severity of symptoms often fluctuates, worsening with activity but improving with rest. While there is no cure for MG, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional care and improving the quality of life for those affected. Treatments such as medication, plasmapheresis, and lifestyle adjustments can help manage symptoms effectively. With early diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan, we can navigate this complex condition together.

What causes Myasthenia Gravis?

While the exact cause of Myasthenia Gravis (MG) remains a mystery, we are dedicated to uncovering the contributing factors. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing better treatments and finding a cure for this challenging condition:

  • Autoimmune Response: MG occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, where nerve cells communicate with muscles. This attack disrupts muscle contraction, leading to the muscle weakness and fatigue seen in MG patients. The exact triggers for this autoimmune response are still under investigation.
  • Genetic Factors: Certain genetic predispositions may increase the risk of developing MG. Researchers are studying specific genes that could be involved in the immune system’s malfunction. While MG is not directly inherited, a family history of autoimmune diseases can suggest a higher susceptibility.
  • Thymus Gland: Abnormalities in the thymus gland, such as thymomas (tumors of the thymus), are often associated with MG. The thymus plays a role in the immune system’s development, and its dysfunction can lead to the production of autoantibodies that attack the neuromuscular junction. Understanding the role of the thymus in MG is an ongoing area of research.
  • Autoimmune Conditions: Individuals with other autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, have a higher risk of developing MG. This suggests a shared underlying mechanism across different autoimmune disorders. Studying these connections can provide insights into common pathways for therapeutic interventions.

By delving deeper into these contributing factors, we hope to uncover the underlying mechanisms of MG, paving the way for more effective treatments and a cure.

Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis

MG symptoms can vary widely and often fluctuate, making the condition challenging to manage. However, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and confident care for every patient through personalized treatment plans and continuous support. Here are some common symptoms associated with Myasthenia Gravis (MG):

  • Ocular Symptoms: Ptosis (drooping eyelids) can make it difficult to keep eyes open, leading to tiredness. Diplopia (double vision) can impact activities like reading or driving and may need corrective measures.
  • Facial and Throat Symptoms: Dysarthria (slurred speech) affects speech muscles, making communication difficult and frustrating. Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) poses a choking risk and can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Limited facial expressions due to muscle weakness can affect emotional display and social interactions.
  • Limb and Trunk Symptoms: General muscle weakness in arms and legs makes tasks like lifting objects or walking long distances tiring. Difficulty climbing stairs or lifting objects hinders mobility and independence. Neck and jaw weakness complicates holding the head up or chewing food, contributing to discomfort.
  • Respiratory Symptoms: Myasthenic Crisis (severe respiratory muscle weakness) is a potentially life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention to prevent respiratory failure. 

We prioritize patient well-being and are here to support you through every step of your journey. Whether through medical treatments, physical therapy, or emotional support, we aim to enhance the quality of life for those affected by MG. Our team is committed to staying updated on the latest research and treatment options to provide you with the best possible care.

How to Diagnose Myasthenia Gravis

Early diagnosis of MG is crucial for managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Prompt diagnosis allows for timely intervention, reducing the risk of severe complications like myasthenic crisis. Knowing the exact cause of your symptoms can also provide peace of mind and help you take proactive steps in your healthcare journey.

Diagnostic Steps

Clinical Evaluation: The diagnostic process begins with a thorough clinical evaluation, including a review of medical history, muscle strength assessment, and physical exams for signs like drooping eyelids and limb weakness.

Edrophonium Test: Administers edrophonium chloride to temporarily improve muscle strength, suggesting myasthenia gravis.

Electromyography (EMG): Measures electrical activity in muscles to detect abnormal responses. Includes:

  • Repetitive Nerve Stimulation (RNS): Measures muscle response to repeated nerve stimulation.
  • Single-Fiber EMG (SFEMG): Assesses individual muscle fibers for abnormal transmission.

Blood Tests: Detect antibodies targeting acetylcholine receptors or MuSK, supporting the MG diagnosis.

Imaging Studies: CT or MRI scans evaluate the thymus gland for abnormalities or thymomas, influencing treatment decisions.

Other Diagnostic Tests:

  • Pulmonary Function Tests: Assess lung function, especially if there are respiratory symptoms.
  • Ice Pack Test: Diagnoses ptosis by applying an ice pack to the eyelid.
  • Tensilon Test: Similar to the edrophonium test for confirming the diagnosis, but uses edrophonium chloride to temporarily improve muscle strength in individuals suspected of having myasthenia gravis, while the edrophonium test may refer more broadly to the use of edrophonium for similar diagnostic purposes without the same focused application.

Standard Treatment Options for Myasthenia Gravis

While there is currently no cure for Myasthenia Gravis (MG), we want you to know that we are wholeheartedly dedicated to helping you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Our personalized treatment plans are thoughtfully designed to cater to your unique needs and may include medications, therapies, and lifestyle adjustments.

Medications

  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors: Medications like pyridostigmine (Mestinon) play a crucial role in enhancing communication between your nerves and muscles. By temporarily relieving muscle weakness, these medications can help improve your overall vitality and make daily activities more manageable.
  • Immunosuppressants Drugs: such as prednisone, azathioprine, and mycophenolate mofetil are designed to help reduce your immune system’s attack on the neuromuscular junctions. By controlling symptoms more effectively, these medications empower you to lead a more fulfilling and active life, enabling you to engage in the activities you love.
  • Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG): IVIG therapy provides you with normal antibodies that can help modify your immune system’s response. This treatment offers short-term relief from severe symptoms, contributing to your overall wellness and allowing you to experience moments of relief during challenging times.
  • Plasmapheresis: This procedure involves removing harmful antibodies from your blood, leading to rapid improvement in symptoms, especially during a myasthenic crisis. Our commitment to exceptional patient care means that we will work with you to provide timely and effective interventions when you need them most.

Surgical Treatments

  • Thymectomy: The surgical removal of the thymus gland can lead to significant symptom relief and may even result in remission for some patients, particularly those with thymomas. This option offers a renewed sense of hope and improved quality of life, allowing you to embrace each day with greater energy and positivity.

Biologic Options for Myasthenia Gravis at IVX

At IVX, we take pride in leading innovative treatments for Myasthenia Gravis (MG) through biologics. These advanced therapies target the underlying mechanisms of MG, offering hope for patients who haven’t responded well to conventional treatments. Biologics like VYVGART and SOLIRIS modulate the immune response, providing a personalized approach to symptom management and improving quality of life. Our commitment to these pioneering treatments highlights our dedication to achieving the best outcomes and empowering our patients on their journey to better health and well-being.

  • VYVGART: This medication specifically targets and reduces immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in the bloodstream, which are often responsible for autoimmune disorders like generalized myasthenia gravis, providing patients with renewed hope for symptom relief and improved quality of life. 
  • SOLIRIS: By inhibiting the complement protein C5 in the immune system, SOLIRIS effectively prevents the immune system from attacking acetylcholine receptors, which is crucial for muscle communication, thereby paving the way for better health in conditions like myasthenia gravis and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria.
  • ULTOMIRIS: This medication blocks the same complement protein C5, preventing its activation and the subsequent inflammatory response that damages acetylcholine receptors, ultimately leading to a brighter future for patients with conditions such as myasthenia gravis and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome.

At our core, we are dedicated to patient care, always striving for excellence. Our compassionate approach ensures every patient feels valued and supported on their journey to better health.

Final Thoughts

Living with Myasthenia Gravis can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and support, individuals can lead fulfilling lives. Advances in treatment and comprehensive management strategies offer hope and improved quality of life for those affected by MG. At IVX Health, we are committed to providing the highest quality care for our patients. If you have any questions or need personalized support, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dedicated team. Our skilled staff is here to help you every step of the way. Stay informed, stay positive, and remember—being known is being cared for. 

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