Certolizumab
Cimzia (certolizumab pegol) is a prescription biologic medication known as a TNF inhibitor used to treat various inflammatory conditions. It works by blocking a protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) that causes inflammation in the body, thereby reducing symptoms and helping to control autoimmune diseases.
Cimzia is a biologic drug that reduces inflammation by blocking TNF and is used to treat autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 795082
- Generic
- Cimzia
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Cimzia is FDA-approved to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn's disease, plaque psoriasis, and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis. It is typically used when other treatments have not been effective.
Cimzia is a monoclonal antibody fragment that binds to and neutralizes TNF-alpha, a cytokine that plays a key role in causing inflammation and tissue damage in inflammatory conditions. By blocking TNF, it helps reduce pain, swelling, and joint damage.
Cimzia is administered by subcutaneous injection, usually every 2-4 weeks after a loading dose. As an immunosuppressant, it increases the risk of serious infections and may rarely increase the risk of certain cancers. Patients should be screened for tuberculosis before starting treatment and should not receive live vaccines while taking this medication. Common side effects include upper respiratory infections, rash, and injection site reactions.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy