Certolizumab Pegol: An Informative Medication Profile for Adult Patients

Names of Medication

Cimzia (Certolizumab Pegol)

Pharmacologic Category

Certolizumab Pegol is a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor. Other medications in the same pharmacologic category include:
Adalimumab (Humira)
Etanercept (Enbrel)
Infliximab (Remicade)
Golimumab (Simponi)

Dosing

Certolizumab Pegol is used to treat several diseases in adults. Always consult your doctor before adjusting your medication dose. The following are diseases treated by Certolizumab Pegol and their respective dosing information:

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Initial dose: 400 mg at weeks 0, 2, and 4, followed by a maintenance dose of 200 mg every other week or 400 mg every four weeks.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Initial dose: 400 mg at weeks 0, 2, and 4, followed by a maintenance dose of 200 mg every other week or 400 mg every four weeks.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Initial dose: 400 mg at weeks 0, 2, and 4, followed by a maintenance dose of 200 mg every other week or 400 mg every four weeks.

Crohn’s Disease

Initial dose: 400 mg at weeks 0, 2, and 4, followed by a maintenance dose of 400 mg every four weeks.

Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis

Initial dose: 400 mg at weeks 0, 2, and 4, followed by a maintenance dose of 200 mg every other week or 400 mg every four weeks.

Plaque Psoriasis

Initial dose: 400 mg at weeks 0, 2, and 4, followed by a maintenance dose of 200 mg every other week or 400 mg every four weeks.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Certolizumab Pegol is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:
Prefilled syringe: 200 mg/1 mL
Lyophilized powder for reconstitution: 200 mg/vial

Administration Instructions

Certolizumab Pegol is administered by subcutaneous injection. The injections should be given in the thigh or abdomen, at least two inches away from the navel. The injection site should be rotated each time to minimize the risk of irritation. It is important to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions for proper administration and storage.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Certolizumab Pegol may cause side effects. The frequency levels are listed in parentheses.

Upper respiratory tract infections (common)

These infections can occur due to the medication’s immunosuppressive properties. Certolizumab Pegol may weaken the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections such as colds and the flu.

Injection site reactions (common)

Some patients may experience redness, itching, rash, swelling, or pain at the site where the injection was given. This is because the body is reacting to a foreign substance.

Urinary tract infections (common)

These infections can occur as the medication might affect the immune system’s ability to combat bacteria in the urinary tract.

Headaches (common)

This is a common side effect of many medications and may occur as your body adjusts to Certolizumab Pegol.

Rash (uncommon)

A rash can occur due to an allergic reaction to the medication.

Abdominal pain (uncommon)

Some people might experience abdominal pain, possibly due to the medication’s impact on the immune system and inflammation in the body.

Fever (rare)

This could indicate an infection or an allergic reaction to the medication, as Certolizumab Pegol can affect the immune system.

Difficulty breathing (rare)

This could be a sign of an allergic reaction. Seek immediate medical help if this occurs.

Contraindications to Taking Certolizumab Pegol

A contraindication is a situation where a medication should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient.

Active serious infections

Certolizumab Pegol can lower the ability of the immune system to fight infections. If you have a serious infection, your body may not be able to fight it off effectively.

History of hypersensitivity to Certolizumab Pegol or to any of its excipients

Patients who have shown allergic reactions to Certolizumab Pegol in the past may have an increased risk of a severe allergic reaction.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Certain medications may interact with Certolizumab Pegol, including:
Anakinra (Kineret)
Abatacept (Orencia)
Live vaccines

Certolizumab Pegol in Pregnancy

It’s uncertain whether Certolizumab Pegol is safe to use during pregnancy. It’s crucial to discuss your options with your healthcare provider if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Certolizumab Pegol while Breastfeeding

Certolizumab Pegol may pass into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before using this medication while breastfeeding.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Certolizumab Pegol without insurance, using a GoodRx coupon, is approximately $4000 – $5000. Please note that prices can vary depending on location and pharmacy and are subject to change.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.