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Compare Cimzia vs. Humira

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Cimzia (certolizumab pegol) and Humira (adalimumab) are both injectable medications used to treat various autoimmune conditions, but they have some differences between them. Cimzia is typically given every 2 to 4 weeks, while Humira is usually administered every other week. Cimzia is not approved for use in children, while Humira can be used in children as young as 2 years old for certain conditions. Cimzia can be stored at room temperature for up to 7 days, but Humira can be kept at room temperature for up to 14 days. Both medications can raise your risk of serious infections. Currently Humira has more biosimilars available, which are similar versions of the medication.

  • Cimzia (certolizumab)
    Humira (adalimumab)
  • Cimzia (certolizumab)
    Humira (adalimumab)

  • Summary of Cimzia vs. Humira

    Summary for TNF blocker
    Prescription only

    Cimzia (certolizumab) is a prescription biologic used to treat several autoimmune conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and Crohn's disease. It works by blocking a protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF), which helps reduce inflammation in your body. The medication is given as an injection under the skin every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on your condition. Common side effects include upper respiratory infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and skin rash.

    Summary for Biologic DMARD
    Prescription only

    Humira (adalimumab) is an injectable medication used for treating many different autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Crohn's disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC), and plaque psoriasis. It's usually given every other week, and it can be used alone or taken with methotrexate or other non-biologic medications. This medication is available as many different brands (or biosimilars).

  • Indications of Cimzia vs. Humira

    Indications for
    •Moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease when other treatments haven't worked - adults only
    •Moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA) - adults only
    •Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA) - adults children 2 years and older
    •Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) - adults only
    •Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) - adults only
    •Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) - adults only
    •Moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis (PsO) - adults only
    Indications for
    •Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) - adults only
    •Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) - people age 2 and older
    •Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) - adults only
    •Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) - adults only
    •Crohn's disease (CD) - people age 6 and older
    •Ulcerative colitis (UC) - people age 5 and older
    •Plaque psoriasis - adults only
    •Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) - people age 12 and older
    •Uveitis - people age 2 and older

  • Pros and Cons of Cimzia vs. Humira

    Pros and Const for TNF blocker
    Pros
    •Treats a variety of autoimmune conditions
    •Only need to inject every 2 to 4 weeks
    •Available as a prefilled syringe for at-home administration
    Cons
    •Can raise your risk for infections
    •Some people might have difficulty injecting it properly
    •Might have a higher risk for certain cancers
    Pros and Const for Biologic DMARD
    Pros
    •Can be used for many autoimmune conditions
    •Available as a ready-to-use pen that makes it easier to self-inject at home
    •Can be used in young children (as young as 2 years old for some conditions)
    •Only needs to be injected a couple times a month
    •Can be left at room temperature for up to 14 days if needed
    Cons
    •Raises the risk of serious infections
    •Might raise the risk of lymphoma and skin cancers
    •Might be difficult to inject for some people
    •Can't receive any live vaccines while taking the medication
    •Contains rubber or latex, which can cause a reaction for those with an allergy

  • Common Side Effects of Cimzia vs. Humira

    Common Side Effects for
    •Upper respiratory infections (18%)
    •Rash (9%)
    •Urinary tract infections (8%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Injection-site reaction (20%)
    •Upper respiratory tract infection (17%)
    •Headache (12%)
    •Rash (12%)
    •Sinus inflammation (11%)
    •Accidental injury (10%)
    •Nausea (9%)
    •Urinary tract infection (UTI) or bladder infection (8%)

  • Warnings of Cimzia vs. Humira

    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious infections
    •Cancer
    •Heart failure
    •Allergic reactions
    •Nervous system problems
    •Blood problems
    •Lupus-like condition
    •Live vaccines
    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious infections
    •Cancers
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Nervous system effects
    •Low blood cell counts
    •Heart failure
    •Live vaccines

  • Prices with our coupons for Cimzia vs. Humira

    Learn more about Cimzia
    Learn more about Humira

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