Drug
Certolizumab Pegol
Pronounced
"SER-toe-LIZ-oo-mab"
Uses
This medication is used to reduce pain and swelling due to certain inflammatory conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, plaque psoriasis, polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis). Some brands may also be used to treat a certain type of spine condition (axial spondyloarthritis) or a certain bowel condition (Crohn's disease). Certolizumab belongs to a class of drugs known as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers. It works by blocking TNF, a substance made by the body that causes inflammation.
Warning
This medication can decrease your body's ability to fight an infection. This effect can lead to very serious (possibly fatal) infections (such as fungal infections, bacterial infections including tuberculosis). You should have a tuberculosis (TB) skin test before and during treatment with this medication. Also tell your doctor your medical history, especially of past/recent/current infections. You should also tell your doctor if you have lived or traveled in areas where certain fungal infections (such as coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis) are common or if you have been near someone with tuberculosis. Tell your doctor right away if you develop signs of an infection while using this drug, such as sore throat or cough that doesn't go away, fever, chills, night sweats, painful/frequent urination, unusual vaginal discharge, white patches in the mouth (oral thrush).
If you are diagnosed with TB, you must first be treated for it before you start certolizumab to prevent a serious TB infection.
Though it is very unlikely to happen, there is a risk (especially in children/teens/young adults) of developing cancer (such as lymphoma, skin) due to this medication or due to your medical condition. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms such as fever that doesn't go away, unusual lumps/growths, skin changes, swollen glands, swollen or painful abdomen, unexplained weight loss, or night sweats.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide and the Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using certolizumab and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Inject this medication under the skin as directed by your doctor. The injection is given in the stomach or thigh area. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Children's dosage is also based on weight.
If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Take the medication out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before you inject it to allow it to reach room temperature. Do not warm up this medication any other way (for example, do not heat it in the microwave or place it in hot water). Before using, check this product for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. Do not inject into skin that is sore, bruised, red, scaly, or hard. To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a reminder.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.