Powered By
Cimzia (certolizumab pegol) is a biologic medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy (treatment that works throughout the whole body) or phototherapy (a treatment that uses ultraviolet light to improve psoriasis symptoms).
These insights are based on 126 comments about Cimzia from MyPsoriasisTeam members. These are the experiences of a small number of members and are not meant to be medical advice.
Cimzia is a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker. TNF is a protein made by the immune system that normally helps protect the body from infections. In psoriasis, the immune system makes too much TNF, which causes extra inflammation and leads to discolored, scaly skin patches. By blocking TNF, Cimzia helps calm the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve psoriasis symptoms.
Doctors prescribe Cimzia when psoriasis significantly impacts quality of life and hasn’t responded well to other treatments. The medication is given as subcutaneous injections (shots under the skin) on a regular schedule that your doctor will determine. Most people will receive the injections every other week.
These insights are based on 126 comments about Cimzia from MyPsoriasisTeam members.Members emphasize that Cimzia requires patience since it can take months to work fully. Staying alert for side effects like injection site reactions and increased infection risk is essential for safe treatment.
Connect with others who understand life with psoriasis. Join MyPsoriasisTeam for free.
In clinical trials studying people with plaque psoriasis, the most common side effects reported with Cimzia included:
About 20 percent of people taking Cimzia in clinical trials had upper respiratory infections, about the same rate as those taking placebo (an inactive treatment). The other side effects occurred in about 3 percent of people.
Serious side effects require immediate medical attention. Always tell your doctor about new or worsening symptoms. Cimzia’s rare but serious side effects include:
The medication carries a boxed warning about serious infection risks. Your immune system’s ability to fight infections may decrease while taking Cimzia.
Cimzia’s manufacturer UCB offers a copay assistance program for eligible people who have private health insurance. This program may help reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Financial assistance may also be available if you don’t have insurance or are underinsured. Contact your healthcare provider or visit the manufacturer’s website for more information on assistance programs.
Eligibility requirements and program details may change over time.
Before starting Cimzia, your doctor will need to perform several tests:
Treatment should not begin if you have any type of active infection. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following before you start treatment:
Let your doctor know if you have latex sensitivity. The prefilled syringe contains natural rubber latex derivatives.
Cimzia is also FDA-approved for treating several other conditions including psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, nonradiographic axial spondyloarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember and continue your regular schedule. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before choosing a new treatment.
These answers are fact-checked by our editorial staff.
How effective is Cimzia for treating psoriasis?
In clinical trials, between 65 percent and 82 percent of people receiving Cimzia saw their psoriasis symptoms improve by 75 percent (PASI 75) after 16 weeks, compared with 7 percent to 13 percent who took placebo. PASI stands for the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index, a tool that measures how much of the body is affected by psoriasis plaques.
How soon might I notice improvement in my psoriasis with Cimzia?
Clinical trials measured responses after 16 weeks, though individual responses vary. Around half of participants achieved clear or almost clear skin after 16 weeks. Some people may see improvement earlier.
Can Cimzia treat both skin psoriasis and joint pain?
Yes, Cimzia is FDA-approved for both moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and active psoriatic arthritis.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Cimzia?
Stop taking Cimzia immediately and seek emergency medical care if you experience symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling, or severe rash.
Do I need any vaccines before starting Cimzia?
Your doctor will ensure you’re up to date on vaccines before starting treatment. Live vaccines should be avoided while taking Cimzia.
On MyPsoriasisTeam, people share their experiences with psoriasis, get advice, and find support from others who understand.
Learn more about Cimzia and psoriasis care:
Become a member to get even more
Join