Cimzia Autoinjector (Certolizumab)

SAVE on CIMZIA ordering online from Canada! (USA Prescription Required)

Cimzia® Autoinjector (Certolizumab pegol) - Canada Product Information

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Cimzia is a medication used to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms in certain autoimmune diseases. It works by targeting a specific protein in the body called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) that plays a key role in causing inflammation.

What Conditions Does Cimzia Treat?

Cimzia is used to treat:

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Helps reduce pain, swelling, and joint damage in adults with moderate to severe RA, especially when combined with methotrexate.

Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Reduces symptoms and prevents joint damage in adults with moderate to severe PsA.

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Reduces symptoms in adults with active AS, a type of arthritis affecting the spine.

Plaque Psoriasis (PsO): Treats adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy.

How is Cimzia Administered?

Cimzia is given as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. It comes in a pre-filled syringe or autoinjector containing 200 mg of the medication.

Important Safety Information

Infections: Cimzia can increase the risk of serious infections. Do not use Cimzia if you have an active infection. Inform your doctor if you have a history of recurrent infections or have lived in regions where certain fungal infections are common.

Tuberculosis (TB): All patients should be tested for TB before starting Cimzia. If you have TB or have been exposed to it, appropriate treatment must be started before using Cimzia.

Cancer: There is a potential risk of developing lymphoma and other cancers while using Cimzia. Regular check-ups are important.

Heart Failure: Cimzia should not be used in patients with moderate to severe heart failure.

Allergic Reactions: If you experience symptoms such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or severe rash, stop using Cimzia and seek medical help immediately.

Vaccinations: Avoid live vaccines while using Cimzia.

Common Side Effects

Upper respiratory infections

Headaches

Infections like bronchitis or urinary tract infections

Injection site reactions (redness, pain, or swelling)

Usage in Special Populations

Pregnancy: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Cimzia should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed.

Breastfeeding: Low levels of Cimzia can pass into breast milk. Discuss with your doctor if you are breastfeeding.

Children: Cimzia is not approved for use in children under 18 years old.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

Regular monitoring and follow-up with your healthcare provider are essential while using Cimzia. This includes routine blood tests and check-ups to monitor for any side effects or infections.

How to Store Cimzia

Store Cimzia in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Keep it in the original packaging to protect it from light.

When necessary, Cimzia may be stored at room temperature (up to 77°F), for a single period of maximum 10 days with protection from light. After this period it must used or discarded.

Supplied

Cimzia from Canada is dispensed in a carton containing two alcohol swabs and either:

i. two single use prefilled syringes or

ii. two single-use pre-filled autoinjectors

Both formats provide 200 mg (1.0 mL) of CIMZIA.

The format you receive is dependent on what your prescriber has written for, or which option you have selected.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Signs of infection (fever, persistent cough, weight loss)

Symptoms of heart failure (shortness of breath, swelling of ankles/feet)

Severe allergic reactions

This summary provides essential information about Cimzia but does not cover all possible scenarios. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and discuss any concerns or questions you may have with them.

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Reference Cimzia Canada product monograph

Wash your hands thoroughly and remove the autoinjector from the fridge before use. Choose an injection site on your thigh or abdomen and clean the area with an alcohol swab. Remove the cap from the autoinjector, press it firmly against the skin until it clicks, hold for 15 seconds, then remove.