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This medication, Cimzia (certolizumab), is associated with several important safety considerations that both patients and healthcare providers should be aware of. Below is a summary of potential risks, precautions, and necessary actions to ensure safe use of this medication.

• Infection Risk: Cimzia can impair your immune system's ability to fight infections, increasing the likelihood of serious bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. This risk is particularly elevated for individuals with active, chronic, or recurrent infections, those over 65, or individuals taking other immune-suppressing medications like steroids or methotrexate. It is crucial to undergo a tuberculosis (TB) skin test before and during treatment. If you have a history of TB, you must be treated for TB before starting Cimzia. Notify your healthcare provider immediately if you experience symptoms of infection such as persistent sore throat, cough, fever, chills, night sweats, painful urination, unusual vaginal discharge, or white patches in the mouth.

• Cancer Risk: There is a potential increased risk of developing certain cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, and skin cancer, especially in individuals under 18, those with a history of cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, or those taking immune-suppressing drugs like mercaptopurine or azathioprine. Regular blood tests and physical exams may be necessary to monitor this risk. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, recurrent nosebleeds, or skin lumps.

• Heart Failure: Some patients may experience new or worsening heart failure while using Cimzia. Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart failure. Be vigilant for symptoms like shortness of breath, swelling in the legs or feet, irregular heartbeat, tiredness, or weakness and report them to your provider.

• Nervous System Issues: Rarely, Cimzia can lead to new or worsening nervous system problems, including seizures, nerve damage, and conditions like multiple sclerosis. Disclose any pre-existing neurological conditions to your provider. If you experience dizziness, muscle weakness, vision changes, or balance loss while on Cimzia, seek medical advice.

• Low Blood Cell Counts: Use of Cimzia has been linked to low blood cell counts, which could increase the risk of infections, bleeding, and anemia. If blood counts become too low, discontinuation of the medication may be necessary. Watch for signs of infection or blood problems such as fever, pale skin, rapid heartbeat, lightheadedness, or blood in urine or stool, and contact your healthcare provider promptly.

• Allergic Reactions: Although uncommon, allergic reactions to Cimzia can occur, presenting as rash, hives, difficulty breathing, swelling, or anaphylaxis. If you have a known latex allergy, be particularly cautious and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any allergic symptoms.

By understanding these risks and taking appropriate precautions, patients and healthcare providers can work together to use Cimzia safely and effectively.

When taking this medication, you might experience some mild side effects such as a cough, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, joint pain, upper respiratory infections, or a rash. These symptoms are generally not serious and often resolve on their own. If they persist or worsen, it’s wise to consult your healthcare provider for advice. Additionally, some individuals might notice urinary tract infections, headaches, or mild reactions at the injection site, like pain, swelling, or redness.

However, there are more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include severe allergic reactions marked by hives, swelling of the face or tongue, and difficulty breathing. Rarely, this medication can lead to serious infections, characterized by symptoms such as a high fever, difficulty breathing, and severe fatigue. Heart failure is another critical side effect to watch for, with symptoms like shortness of breath and swelling in the legs or ankles. There may also be signs of possible liver damage, such as persistent nausea, abdominal pain, or yellowing of the skin and eyes.

In rare cases, individuals may experience symptoms suggestive of cancer, such as unexplained weight loss, lumps on the skin, or swollen lymph nodes. If you encounter any of these severe symptoms, seek medical help promptly to ensure your safety and well-being.

Cimzia (certolizumab) can interact with certain medications, which may lead to changes in how either the drug or the interacting substance works. It's important to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications and supplements you're taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products.

Some drugs that may interact with Cimzia include abatacept, anakinra, and other immune system suppressants like Azathioprine, cancer chemotherapy agents, and Cyclosporine. Additionally, Cimzia might affect the results of specific lab tests, such as aPTT, potentially leading to incorrect results. Ensure that all healthcare providers and lab personnel are aware that you are using this medication.

Furthermore, Cimzia should generally not be used with certain live vaccines and other medications like infliximab and Tofacitinib unless absolutely necessary. If prescribed together, your doctor may adjust the dosage or frequency of one or both medications. Always discuss potential interactions with your healthcare provider to manage your treatment safely.