Products
Certolizumab is commercially available as a solution for injection (Cimzia). It has been approved in many countries since 2007.
Structure and properties
Certolizumab is the Fab’ fragment of a recombinant humanized antibody. It is conjugated to polyethylene glycol (PEG) and is therefore also known as certolizumab pegol.
Effects
Certolizumab (ATC L04AB05) has selective immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties. The effects are due to high-affinity binding to the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha and inhibition of binding to its receptors. The half-life is approximately two weeks. TNF-alpha is involved in several autoimmune diseases.
Indications
- Crohn’s disease
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Axial spondyloarthritis
- Plaque psoriasis
Dosage
According to the professional information. The solution for injection is administered subcutaneously every two to four weeks.
Contraindications
Certolizumab is contraindicated in hypersensitivity, active tuberculosis or other serious infectious diseases, and heart failure. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Certolizumab should not be combined with the biologics anakinra or abatacept.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include infectious diseases and skin rashes. Numerous other side effects are possible. The drug may rarely cause serious infections and malignancies.
