Certolizumab pegol

Drug Class: Biologics (TNF-α inhibitor)
Brand Names: Cimzia

Form(s)

Prefilled syringe

Indications/Uses

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), nonradiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA)

Dosages

400 mg (2 injections x 200 mg/mL) every 4 weeks

Or 200 mg (1 injection x 200 mg/mL) every 2 weeks

Potential Side Effects

Bruising, pain or redness at the injection site; headache; infections; rash

Special Instructions

Keep syringes refrigerated. Do not freeze. Allow to reach room temperature before injecting. Inject into thigh, abdomen or upper arm. Rotate injection sites. Do not inject where skin is tender, bruised, red or hard.

Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment.

Be Aware

All biologics suppress the immune system and may increase your risk of infections. Tell your doctor if you have an active infection. Do not start treatment if you have a serious or recurrent infection (such as pneumonia). You should be tested for tuberculosis before starting this medication. Do not get a live vaccine when taking biologics.

Some evidence shows that TNF inhibitors may increase the risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma and skin cancer. Use sun protection and check your skin regularly while taking any of these drugs. TNF inhibitors should be avoided or used with caution in people with congestive heart failure. Rare reports of lupus have been linked to the use of TNF inhibitors. Lupus symptoms may go away when the medication is stopped.

LAST UPDATED: 11/08/24

The Arthritis Foundation’s Drug Guide is meant for education – not self-medicating. The Arthritis Foundation does not endorse any products mentioned in this guide. While we endeavor to keep the information up to date, we make no representations or warranties about the completeness of the information provided.