What Happens During an Infusion
A Step‑by‑Step Walkthrough of an Alzheimer’s Infusion Day
The first infusion can feel like stepping into the unknown. New place, new faces, new routine — and a lot of feelings. The good news: infusion days are structured, predictable, and designed for safety. Once you know the rhythm, most families settle into a routine that feels manageable — even empowering.
Below is a clear walkthrough of what to expect with Leqembi (every two weeks) and Kisunla (monthly). Times may vary by clinic, but the steps are remarkably similar.
The Day Before: Simple Prep
Hydrate well. Well‑hydrated veins = easier IV start.
Sleep if you can. A rested body handles new experiences better.
Pack your infusion bag. Photo ID/insurance card, water, snack, a light jacket, lip balm, headphones/charger, and something cozy to pass the time.
Confirm logistics. Appointment time, parking, who’s driving, and any pre‑medication instructions (some clinics recommend acetaminophen or an antihistamine; many don’t — follow your clinic’s guidance).
Bring your care partner. A second set of eyes and ears helps with comfort and safety.
Step‑by‑Step: Your Infusion Day
Step 1 — Check‑In & Welcome (10–15 min)
You’ll check in at the infusion center or clinic front desk, verify identity and insurance, and get seated in a comfortable chair or private bay.
“I thought I’d feel like a number,” Mark told his wife, Ava, on their first day.
“But they knew our names. That helped.”
Step 2 — Vitals & Quick Review (5–10 min)
A nurse checks blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, oxygen level, and asks about any new symptoms since your last visit (headache, dizziness, confusion, vision changes, nausea). If anything is concerning, they’ll pause and involve your provider.
Step 3 — Safety Checkpoints (timing varies)
Depending on the clinic and where you are in treatment:
MRI milestones may occur on specific doses to screen for ARIA.
Labs (occasionally) if your provider wants a baseline.
Consent & teaching (often first day): what to expect, when to call, how to monitor at home.
Step 4 — IV Start (5–15 min)
A small IV is placed in your arm or hand. Warming your hands and hydrating beforehand makes this easier. Most patients use a peripheral IV; ports are rarely needed for these medicines.
Step 5 — Optional Pre‑Meds (0–10 min)
Some sites give acetaminophen and/or an antihistamine to reduce the chance of infusion reactions. Others don’t unless you’ve had a prior reaction. Your team will follow their protocol and your history.
Step 6 — The Infusion (30–60+ min)
Leqembi: commonly ~1 hour.
Kisunla: often ~30–60 minutes.
The nurse programs the pump for a slow, controlled rate. You can read, nap, listen to music, or chat. Staff will check in and re‑check vitals.
Normal sensations: feeling relaxed, a little chilly (bring that jacket), maybe a brief metallic taste.
Tell your nurse if you notice itchiness, flushing, chest tightness, dizziness, headache, or nausea. Most mild reactions are managed by slowing the rate or with medication.
“Halfway through, I forgot I was even getting medicine,” Nina told her son, laughing softly.
“Good,” he said. “Then we can make this ‘our podcast hour’ every month.”
Step 7 — Observation Time (15–60 min)
After the bag finishes, you may stay for a short observation period — especially early in treatment — while staff watch for delayed infusion reactions and recheck vitals.
Step 8 — De‑access & Discharge (5–10 min)
The IV comes out, you’ll get after‑visit instructions, and you’re on your way. Many patients go straight to lunch or a short walk.
What to Bring (and Wear)
Comfy layers (clinics run cool)
Water + light snack (granola bar, crackers, fruit)
Entertainment (download a playlist or show in case Wi‑Fi is spotty)
Medication list + any new symptoms written down
Care partner (their presence is reassuring — and practical)
A Calm Timeline (Typical First Visit)
00:00 Arrive, check in
00:10 Vitals + symptom review
00:20 IV start (pre‑meds if used)
00:35 Infusion begins
01:20 Infusion completes
01:20–01:50 Observation & discharge
~02:00 Head home
Subsequent visits are often a little faster once everyone knows your routine.
How This Differs by Medication
Leqembi: Every two weeks; infusion ~1 hour; ongoing therapy with scheduled safety MRIs.
Kisunla: Monthly; infusion ~30–60 min; some plans stop after plaques are cleared, then monitor.
Your clinic will tailor the plan based on your health, MRI findings, and how you’re doing clinically.
After You Leave: The First 48 Hours
Most people feel fine and carry on with the day. It’s also common to feel pleasantly tired. Gentle movement, hydration, and a protein‑rich snack help.
Call your clinic promptly if you notice any of the following (even if mild):
New or worsening headache
Confusion, trouble speaking, feeling “off”
Vision changes (blurred or double vision)
Dizziness or imbalance
Nausea or vomiting
Fever, chills, rash, or shortness of breath
These can signal an infusion reaction or, rarely, early signs of ARIA. Quick reporting keeps you safe.
Light Dialogue: First‑Day Jitters
Patient: “Do I have to feel something for it to be working?”
Nurse: “Nope. Many people feel nothing at all — that’s a good thing. The medication is doing its job quietly.”
Care Partner: “What if we miss a dose because of travel?”
Nurse: “Just call us. We’ll adjust the schedule. Consistency matters, but life happens.”
Patient: “Can I drive after?”
Nurse: “Plan for a driver the first few times. If you feel totally normal, some clinics allow it later — but we always prefer safety first.”
Care Partner Power: Your Role on Infusion Day
Observe & advocate. Mention any new symptoms, even small ones.
Track the pattern. Note date/time, how the infusion felt, and evening/week‑after check‑ins.
Keep the calendar. MRIs, neurology visits, and infusion days go fast — a shared digital calendar helps the whole family.
Bring comfort. A favorite blanket or a cafe stop afterward can make the day something to look forward to.
“We started treating it like a ritual,” Jay said about his mom’s infusions.
“Coffee, playlist, infusion, then a quick walk at the park. It changed the whole vibe.”
Common Questions
Do I need to fast?
Usually no. Eat a normal, light meal and hydrate unless your clinic tells you otherwise.
Will I get pre‑meds every time?
Only if your clinic’s protocol or your history suggests it. Many patients never need them.
Can this be done at home?
These medications are typically given in infusion centers where monitoring and emergency support are immediately available.
How long will I be on treatment?
It varies. Leqembi is ongoing; Kisunla is often given for a period and may pause if plaques are cleared. You’ll review progress with your provider.
A Gentle Checklist You Can Save
☐ Hydrate well the day before and morning of
☐ Bring ID/insurance card, med list, and symptom notes
☐ Wear layers; pack snacks, water, and entertainment
☐ Confirm driver/care partner
☐ Ask one question you want answered today (write it down)
Bottom Line
Infusion day is structured, monitored, and far less dramatic than most people imagine. With a little preparation and a steady routine, treatment days can become a calm, predictable part of life — one more way you’re actively protecting time, memories, and independence.
💬 Want a personalized infusion‑day plan?
I help families map out infusion routines, symptom checklists, and MRI schedules — and coach care partners on exactly what to watch for.
📅 Book your free 10‑minute clarity call: https://www.memorytreatmentadvisors.com/schedule
