Cimzia is the brand name of a prescription medication called certolizumab pegol. Cimzia is a type of medication known as a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor. It is used to treat certain autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions, particularly those related to the overproduction of TNF-alpha, which is a protein involved in inflammation.

Cimzia is primarily used to treat the following conditions:

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Cimzia is used in combination with other medications to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis in adults.
2. Ankylosing Spondylitis: It is also used to treat ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine.
3. Psoriatic Arthritis: Cimzia is prescribed for psoriatic arthritis, a condition that combines joint inflammation with psoriasis, a skin disorder.
4. Crohn's Disease: Cimzia is used to treat moderate to severe Crohn's disease in adults who have not responded well to other medications.
5. Plaque Psoriasis: In some cases, it may be used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.

Cimzia works by inhibiting the action of TNF-alpha, which is involved in the inflammation process. By blocking this protein, the medication helps reduce the symptoms and progression of these autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

Cimzia is injected under the skin of the abdomen or thigh. It comes in a pen or a syringe injection.It can be injected by your doctor, nurse, carer or by you. If injecting yourself, be sure to follow the detailed instructions carefully to ensure the best response. It is particularly important to change where you inject each time.

If you forget to take your prescribed dose of Cimzia, it's important to follow the instructions below, but also consult with your healthcare provider for specific guidance

1. Take it as soon as you remember: If you realise that you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one

2. Notify your healthcare provider: It's a good idea to inform your healthcare provider about the missed dose, especially if you frequently miss doses. They can provide guidance on what to do next and whether any adjustments are needed.

Missing doses of Cimzia can affect the effectiveness of the medication in managing your condition. Inconsistent dosing can also increase the risk of disease flares and may not provide the full benefit of the treatment.It's crucial to maintain a consistent dosing schedule with Cimzia as prescribed by your healthcare provider to effectively manage autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions. Always follow your doctor's instructions and seek their advice if you have questions or concerns about your treatment.

Taking too much Cimzia can lead to an increased risk of side effects and complications. It's important to follow your healthcare provider's prescribed dosing instructions carefully. If you believe you have accidentally taken more Cimzia than you should, contact your healthcare provider or seek medical attention immediately.

Overdosing on Cimzia may result in an increased risk of adverse effects, which can include:

1. Increased Risk of Infections: Cimzia suppresses the immune system, and taking too much can make you more susceptible to infections.

2. Allergic Reactions: An overdose can increase the risk of allergic reactions, which can be severe in some cases. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and hives.

3. Other Side Effects: Overdose can lead to an exacerbation of common side effects of Cimzia, such as headache, fatigue, nausea, and injection site reactions.

4. Gastrointestinal Problems: Taking too much Cimzia may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, or upset stomach.

Cimzia should normally be kept refrigerated. If needed, for example when travelling, it may be stored below 25°C for up to 7 days and then used or discarded. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Cimzia can cause serious side effects, including:

1. Heart failure including new heart failure or worsening of heart failure you already have. Symptoms include shortness of breath, swelling of your ankles or feet, or sudden weight gain.
2. Allergic reactions. Signs of an allergic reaction include a skin rash; swelling or itching of the face, tongue, lips, or throat; or trouble breathing.
   The plastic needle shield inside the removable cap of the prefilled syringe contains natural rubber and may cause an allergic reaction if you are sensitive to latex.
3. Hepatitis B virus reactivation in people who carry the virus in their blood. In some cases, people who received CIMZIA have died because of the hepatitis B virus being reactivated. Your healthcare provider should monitor you carefully before and during treatment with CIMZIA to see if you carry the hepatitis B virus in your blood. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of the following symptoms:
   • feel unwell
   • skin or eyes look yellow
   • tiredness (fatigue)
   • poor appetite or vomiting
   • pain on the right side of your stomach (abdomen)
4. New or worsening nervous system problems, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Guillain-Barre syndrome, seizures, or inflammation of the nerves of the eyes. Symptoms may include:
   • dizziness
   • numbness or tingling
   • problems with your vision
   • weakness in your arms or legs
5. Blood problems. Your body may not make enough of the blood cells that help fight infections or help stop bleeding. Symptoms include a fever that does not go away, bruising or bleeding very easily, or looking very pale. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any bruising, bleeding or a fever that does not go away.

Cimzia can interact with other medications, and it's important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs you are taking to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment. Here are some important interactions to be aware of:

1. Other Biologic Drugs: Using Cimzia with other biologic medications, especially those that inhibit tumor necrosis factor (TNF), may increase the risk of infections and side effects. Combining multiple biologics is generally not recommended and should only be done under the close supervision of a healthcare provider.
2. Live Vaccines: Cimzia can weaken your immune system. Avoid receiving live vaccines while on Cimzia, as they may cause an uncontrolled infection. Consult your healthcare provider about vaccination schedules and options.
3. Immunosuppressant Medications: Combining Cimzia with other immunosuppressant drugs may increase the risk of infections. Your healthcare provider will carefully assess the risks and benefits if you are taking multiple immunosuppressants.
4. Certain Medications for Heart Failure: Some medications used to treat heart failure, such as nitrates, may interact with Cimzia. Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking medications for heart-related conditions.
5. Other Medications: Cimzia can potentially interact with a range of medications, including corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and medications that affect liver enzymes. Your healthcare provider will consider these interactions when prescribing Cimzia and may adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Does Cimzia lower your immune system?

Yes, Cimzia is an immunosuppressant and may lower your ability to fight infections. Serious or deadly infections may occur. Do not start Cimzia if you have any infection unless approved by your healthcare provider. Contact your doctor if you develop any symptoms of a viral, fungal, bacterial, tuberculosis (TB) or hepatitis B virus infection. Your doctor should test you for TB before you start treatment and monitor you closely. There is also the possible risk of certain cancers while receiving Cimzia.

How long can Cimzia be out of the fridge?

Cimzia prefilled syringes can stay at room temperature for a single period of up to 7 days, not to exceed 25°C (77°F) and left in the original carton. Do not put the medicine back in the refrigerator if you have stored it at room temperature. Once removed from the refrigerator, write the new expiration date on the package. Throw the prefilled syringe away if not used within the 7-day period.

How long does Cimzia stay in your system?

Cimzia may stay in your system for up to 56 to 70 days before it is fully eliminated. This medicine’s half-life is 14 days. A half-life is the time it takes a dose of the drug to be reduced by one-half. It takes on average 4 to 5 half-lives for a drug to be fully eliminated, but this can vary based on your age, weight, genetics, kidney or liver function, drug interactions, and even medical conditions.

How long does Cimzia take to work?

Cimzia injection can work as fast as 1 or 2 weeks in some people for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis. Its full effectiveness can range from 4 months to 1 year based on your specific medical condition.

Ace provides accurate and independent information medically reviewed on prescription medications. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.