Cimzia®
Drug class
- Biologic/biosimilar
- TNF blocker
Generic name
Certolizumab pegol
Safety
Efficacy
Convenience
Box warning
Certolizumab pegol can lead to serious infections like tuberculosis and fungal infections, which could require hospitalization or cause death. It may also raise the risk of cancers like lymphoma, especially in younger patients. Testing for tuberculosis (TB) and careful infection monitoring are important during use.
Indications
Approved for moderate to severe Crohn's disease. Approved for moderate to severe ulcerative colitis.
How it works
By inhibiting specific proteins that cause inflammation, biologic medications reduce disease activity and severity.
Drug interactions
TNF-α inhibitors or other immunosuppressants. Do not use live vaccines while you're using this medication.
Pre-treatment screening tests
Viral hepatitis panel, tuberculosis infection, liver function panel, complete blood count, assess heart failure status if present.
Tests during screening
Complete blood count, liver function panel, signs and symptoms of infection, and yearly viral hepatitis panel, tuberculosis infection test, and skin exam.
Payment options
https://www.cimzia.com/cimplicity-programRoute of administration
Frequency
2 injections given at week 0, 2, 4, and every 4 weeks thereafter
Side effects
Upper respiratory infections (flu or colds), rash, and urinary tract infections.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to certolizumab pegol or any component of the formulation.
Safety information
This drug may raise the chance of infection, including severe infections. Monitor for fever and chills.