What is CIMZIA?

CIMZIA® (certolizumab pegol) is a prescription biologic medication used to reduce inflammation caused by autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. It works by blocking a protein in the immune system called tumor necrosis factor (TNF), which plays a key role in chronic inflammation, joint damage, and pain.

CIMZIA is part of a class of medications known as TNF inhibitors and is commonly prescribed by rheumatologists for long-term inflammatory disease management.

What Conditions Does CIMZIA Treat?

CIMZIA is FDA-approved to treat several autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, including:

- Rheumatoid Arthritis. (RA)
- Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)
- Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA)
- Plaque Psoriasis (PsO)
- Crohn's Disease

How CIMZIA Works

CIMZIA works by targeting and neutralizing tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a protein responsible for inflammation in autoimmune diseases. Excess TNF can cause joint swelling, stiffness, fatigue, and tissue damage.

By blocking TNF activity, CIMZIA helps:

-Reduce inflammation
-Relieve joint pain and stiffness
-Slow disease progression
-Improve overall quality of life

Unlike some other biologics, CIMZIA does not contain an Fc region, which may reduce placental transfer during pregnancy (under physician guidance).

Dosing Schedule

Starter Dose:
- 400 mg at Weeks 0, 2, and 4 (two 200 mg injections)

Maintenance Dose:
- 200 mg every 2 weeks OR
- 400 mg every 4 weeks

Your rheumatologist will determine the best dosing schedule based on your condition and response to treatment.

CIMZIA Dosage by Condition

-Rheumatoid Arthritis: Standard loading dose followed by maintenance dosing
-Psoriatic Arthritis: Similar dosing to RA
-Ankylosing Spondylitis: Long-term maintenance dosing recommended
-Plaque Psoriasis: May require condition-specific adjustments

How is CIMZIA Taken

CIMZIA is administered as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin).

CIMZIA Injection vs Infusion

- CIMZIA is not an IV infusion
- It is given as a self-injection or in-clinic injection

Can CIMZIA Be Taken at Home?

Yes. After proper training, many patients self-inject CIMZIA at home. Others prefer receiving injections in a clinical setting for monitoring and comfort.

Why Choose Scottsdale Rheumatology Center for CIMZIA?

- Board-certified rheumatology specialists
- In-clinic CIMZIA injections available
- Calm, clean, and private treatment environment
- On-site monitoring for side effects
- Appointment reminders and easy scheduling
- Personalized treatment coordination

CIMZIA Side Effects and Risks

Common Side Effects
- Upper respiratory infections
- Headache
- Rash
- Injection site reactions

Serious Side Effects:
- TB or fungal infections
- Liver issues
- Nervous system issues
- Cancer risk (rare)

Who Should Not Take CIMZIA?

CIMZIA may not be suitable for patients who:

- Have active infections
- Have a history of TB or chronic infections
- Have certain cancers or immune system disorders
- Are allergic to certolizumab pegol

Always consult your rheumatologist before starting treatment.

Drug Interactions and Vaccines

Avoid live vaccines while taking CIMZIA
- Inform your provider about all medications and supplements
- CIMZIA may need to be paused before surgery

CIMZIA During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

CIMZIA may be considered during pregnancy and breastfeeding only under specialist supervision. Your rheumatologist will weigh potential risks and benefits before recommending treatment.

Prior Authorization & Copay Assistance

Prior authorization submission and tracking
- Manufacturer copay assistance applications
- Insurance coordination
- Cost-minimization suppo

CIMZIA Cost and Insurance Coverage

CIMZIA cost varies based on insurance coverage
- Assistance programs may significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs
- Medicare and private insurance coverage may apply
Our team will guide you through every financial step.

Support Services We Offer

- On-site CIMZIA injections
- Copay & insurance support
- Scheduling reminders
- Scottsdale Rheumatology Center, AZ wellness support
- Patient education for self-injection

Common Patient Questions

Is CIMZIA a steroid?
No. CIMZIA is a biologic TNF inhibitor, not a steroid.

Is CIMZIA an immunosuppressant?
Yes, it affects the immune system and requires monitoring.

How long does CIMZIA take to work?
Most patients see improvement within 2 to 12 weeks.

Can CIMZIA be used long-term?
Yes, many patients use CIMZIA long-term under medical supervision.

Ready to Start CIMZIA Treatment?

Contact Scottsdale Rheumatology Center today to begin your CIMZIA treatment journey with expert care and full support.
Address: 14201 N. 87th St., Suite A-105, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Phone: +1 (480) 571-3060
Website: www.scottsdalerheumatologycenter.com

References & Resources

- Official Website: https://www.cimzia.com
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/certolizumab-subcutaneous-route/description/drg-20068333
- Drugs.com: https://www.drugs.com/cimzia.html
- Rheumatology.org: https://rheumatology.org/patients/tumor-necrosis-factor-tnf-inhibitors