Living with thyroid eye disease (TED) can be overwhelming. Symptoms like eye bulging, double vision, and pain impact more than just your vision; they can affect your confidence and quality of life. Choosing the right treatment is a critical step toward relief and reclaiming your day-to-day ease.
At The Infusion Center at Denver Arthritis Clinic, we specialize in delivering advanced care for thyroid eye disease, including revolutionary options like Tepezza infusion therapy. Our experienced team is committed to personalizing your treatment plan to fit your unique needs and goals. Whether you're seeking to understand infusion therapy, traditional medications, or a combination of approaches, we’re here to help you make an informed choice.
Read on to explore how infusion therapy compares to medications and find the option that suits your lifestyle, symptoms, and long-term health.
Thyroid Eye Disease Infusion Therapy
Infusion therapy delivers medication directly into your bloodstream through an IV. This approach allows medications, like Tepezza, to start working quickly and provide targeted relief for moderate to severe cases of thyroid eye disease.
Tepezza is the first FDA-approved treatment specifically designed to manage TED by stopping the proteins in your immune system that cause inflammation and tissue damage around your eyes.
Treatment Effectiveness
Tepezza infusion therapy is considered highly effective for managing TED. Unlike traditional medications, it addresses the root cause of the condition by blocking inflammation-causing proteins.
Clinical studies have shown that patients undergoing Tepezza treatments see reductions in eye bulging, improvement in double vision, and better overall eye health.
Speed of Symptom Relief
Patients often notice significant improvement in TED symptoms, such as reduced tissue swelling and light sensitivity, after just a few infusions.
A full course of treatment typically involves eight infusions spread out over several months, and many patients experience meaningful, lasting relief by the end of the therapy.
Side Effects and Risks
Tepezza is generally well-tolerated by most patients. Mild side effects like muscle cramps, fatigue, headaches, and infusion site reactions have been reported.
Less commonly, patients may experience temporary hearing changes or increased blood sugar levels. Serious side effects are rare, and our team ensures careful monitoring during infusions to address any complications quickly.
Patient Lifestyle and Convenience
While infusion therapy requires about 90 minutes per session and a time commitment over a few months, the results are often long-lasting. Our Denver center provides a relaxing environment with oversized chairs, refreshments, and Wi-Fi, ensuring patients are comfortable.
The fewer treatments required compared to long-term medication use also makes infusions a streamlined option.
Insurance and Cost Considerations
Tepezza is covered by most insurance plans, typically for patients meeting eligibility requirements.
Our Denver team helps patients understand their benefits, manage approvals, and explore assistance programs to make the treatment as accessible as possible.
Other Medications
Traditional medications for TED, like corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatory drugs, are non-invasive options taken orally or through injections.
These treatments aim to control swelling and ease TED symptoms, though they typically don’t address the root cause of the condition.
Treatment Effectiveness
While corticosteroids and similar medications may provide short-term relief, they might not prevent the progression of TED or alleviate severe symptoms as effectively as Tepezza.
These drugs often focus on managing inflammation rather than correcting the disease mechanisms that lead to tissue changes and vision problems.
Speed of Symptom Relief
Medications like corticosteroids can take longer to show noticeable improvements in TED symptoms. The results may also vary from patient to patient, and some require ongoing dose adjustments to maintain relief.
This slower, less predictable response can be a drawback compared to infusion therapy.
Speed of Symptom Relief
Medications like corticosteroids can take longer to show noticeable improvements in TED symptoms. The results may also vary from patient to patient, and some require ongoing dose adjustments to maintain relief.
This slower, less predictable response can be a drawback compared to infusion therapy.
Side Effects and Risks
Long-term use of corticosteroids often results in significant risks, including weight gain, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar levels, and weakened bones.
Other issues, like increased risk for mood changes, infections, or eye complications, mean that they may not be a sustainable option for all patients.
Patient Lifestyle and Convenience
Oral medications offer the convenience of at-home use, but this ease comes with challenges too.
Managing daily medications, potential side effects, and regular follow-up appointments can make traditional therapies more demanding over time.
Insurance and Cost Considerations
Medications may seem more affordable in the short term, but prolonged use, dosage increases, and the potential need for multiple prescriptions can add up.
Frequent doctor visits for monitoring and side effect management further increase the long-term cost.
Which One is the Right One for You?
Choosing between infusion therapy and medications for thyroid eye disease comes down to your unique symptoms, health goals, and treatment preferences.
- If you’re dealing with moderate to severe TED and want fast, targeted relief, Tepezza infusion therapy offers a highly effective and clinically proven option.
- For patients with mild TED or those seeking non-invasive solutions, traditional medications might serve as a good starting point.
It’s important to discuss your condition with a specialist who can evaluate your needs and guide you toward the most suitable approach. Our Denver clinic is here to provide expert advice and support.
Why Choose the Denver Arthritis Clinic for Tepezza Infusions?
When it comes to infusion therapy, The Infusion Center at Denver Arthritis Clinic offers unparalleled care for thyroid eye disease patients. Here’s what you can expect from us:
- Experienced Team: Our staff includes registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and physicians, ensuring expert oversight during every stage of your infusion therapy.
- Patient Comfort: We prioritize your comfort with oversized recliners, complimentary snacks, and Wi-Fi access to make your infusion sessions relaxing.
- Comprehensive Support: From scheduling and insurance navigation to answering your questions about side effects, our team is here to help.
- Advanced Care: Tepezza is just one example of the cutting-edge treatments we provide. We specialize in delivering effective solutions tailored to your condition and preferences.
Find Relief for Your Thyroid Eye Disease with Our Care
Finding the right treatment for thyroid eye disease can make a world of difference in your comfort and overall well-being. Whether you choose infusion therapy with Tepezza or explore other approaches, The Infusion Center at Denver Arthritis Clinic is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today at (303) 394-2828 or visit our website to refer a patient. Together, we’ll create a path toward relief and improved quality of life.
