Information about Cimzia (Certolizumab)
Cimzia (Certolizumab) is a prescription medication used to treat various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. It is a TNF-alpha inhibitor that works by blocking the action of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, a protein involved in inflammation. Cimzia is mainly used to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis.
Product Highlights
- Used to treat moderate to severe RA in adults, often in combination with methotrexate.
- Effective for managing symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in adults.
- Helps reduce symptoms and inflammation associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Used in adults for moderate to severe Crohn’s disease, particularly when other treatments have not been effective.
- Approved for moderate to severe ulcerative colitis in adults.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Helps to reduce inflammation and symptoms associated with autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions.
- Can lead to significant improvements in symptoms, including pain and swelling, and overall quality of life.
- Administered via subcutaneous injection, often every 2 to 4 weeks depending on the condition and patient response.
Direction of Use
- Rheumatoid Arthritis & Psoriatic Arthritis: Initial dose is typically 400 mg administered as two 200 mg injections at weeks 0, 2, and 4, followed by 200 mg every 2 or 4 weeks depending on the patient’s response.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis: Initial dose of 400 mg at weeks 0, 2, and 4, followed by 200 mg every 2 or 4 weeks.
- Crohn’s Disease: Initial dose of 400 mg at weeks 0, 2, and 4, followed by 400 mg every 4 weeks.
- Ulcerative Colitis: Initial dose of 400 mg at weeks 0, 2, and 4, followed by 400 mg every 4 weeks.
Safety Concerns
- Common side effects include upper respiratory infections, headaches, and reactions at the injection site.
- May include serious infections (e.g., tuberculosis, fungal infections), reactivation of hepatitis B, and increased risk of certain cancers. Rare cases of severe allergic reactions and liver problems have been reported.
- Regular monitoring for signs of infection and liver function is recommended. Patients should be screened for tuberculosis before starting treatment.
Avoid Cimzia (Certolizumab) If
- Avoid if you have active infections or a history of recurrent infections due to the increased risk of serious infections.
- Avoid if you have a history of certain cancers or active hepatitis B, as Cimzia may exacerbate these conditions.
- If you have a known allergy to certolizumab or any of its components.
- Caution is required if you have severe liver impairment, and it may be contraindicated in such cases.
This product requires special packaging to maintain its integrity during the shipping process. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICATION if the attached temperature indicator shows that the medication was exposed to temperatures below 2 degrees or above 8 degrees Celsius, and contact the pharmacy immediately.
