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Compare Prednisone vs. Cimzia

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

Key takeaways

Prednisone (Rayos, Prednisone Intensol) and Cimzia (certolizumab pegol) are both used to treat conditions related to the immune system, but they work in different ways and are used for different types of conditions. Prednisone is an oral corticosteroid that helps reduce inflammation and is used for a wide range of conditions, including autoimmune disorders, allergies, skin conditions, and certain cancers. It is available in generic form and can be taken as a tablet or oral liquid. Common side effects include stomach irritation, insomnia, and weight gain. On the other hand, Cimzia is an injectable tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker used to treat autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis. It is not available in a generic form and is administered every 2 to 4 weeks. Side effects of Cimzia include upper respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and skin rash. While both medications can increase the risk of infections, Cimzia also carries a risk of heart failure and certain cancers. Prednisone is more likely to cause mood and behavior changes, as well as long-term issues like weakened bones and eye problems.

Prednisone
Cimzia (certolizumab)
Prednisone
Cimzia (certolizumab)
Summary of Prednisone vs. Cimzia
Summary for Corticosteroid
Prescription only
Prednisone is an oral corticosteroid. It's taken by mouth by adults and children to treat health conditions related to an overactive immune system or inflammation, such as allergies and certain skin conditions. Your healthcare team will determine your dose based on what medical condition you have. Some of the common short-term side effects of prednisone include stomach irritation and mood changes. And if you take this medication for a month or longer, you're more likely to experience long-term side effects, like weight gain and weakened immune system.
Summary for TNF blocker
Prescription only
Cimzia (certolizumab) is an injection that's used to treat many autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn's disease. This medication is given every 2 to 4 weeks. It can be used by itself or together with other medications, such as methotrexate. Side effects of Cimzia (certolizumab) include upper respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and skin rash.
Indications of Prednisone vs. Cimzia
Indications for
This medication is used for many different conditions. Generally, it's used for autoimmune problems, conditions related to swelling, or cancer. Some examples include:

•Allergies or allergic reactions

•Skin conditions

•Conditions affecting certain hormones (e.g., low adrenal hormones)

•Eye conditions

•Lung conditions

•Gut conditions (e.g., ulcerative colitis)

•Conditions related to blood cells

•Certain cancers (e.g., leukemia

•Nervous system conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis)

•Joint conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)

•Lupus

Indications for

•Moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease

•Moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

•Psoriatic arthritis (PsA)

•Ankylosing spondylitis (AS)

•Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA)

•Moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis (PsO)
Pros and Cons of Prednisone vs. Cimzia
Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
Pros

•Works well to treat many different conditions involving the immune system

•Available as a liquid, which is a good option for people who have difficulty swallowing pills

•Available as a lower-cost generic

•Dose can be adjusted based on your response to the medication

Cons

•Can cause side effects like upset stomach, mood changes, and sleep problems

•Need to taper your dose before stopping (if you took it for more than a couple of weeks)

•Might raise your risk for infections, bone weakening, and skin problems if used long term

•Can slow growth in children if they take it for a long period of time

Pros and Const for TNF blocker
Pros

•Can use for many autoimmune conditions

•Only need to inject every 2 to 4 weeks

•Available as a prefilled syringe for easier use

•Can store prefilled syringe at room temperature for up to 7 days, if needed

Cons

•Can raise your risk of infection

•Might be difficult for some people to administer properly

•Hasn't been studied in children younger than 18 years old
Common Side Effects of Prednisone vs. Cimzia
Common Side Effects for

•Swelling (e.g., puffiness in the face, hands, or feet)

•Stomach bloating

•Muscle weakness

•Headache

•Insomnia (trouble sleeping)

•Changes in your mood

•Larger appetite (possibly leading to weight gain)

•Higher blood sugar

Common Side Effects for

•Upper respiratory infections (common cold, throat infection; 18%)

•Rash (9%)

•Urinary tract infections (8%)
Warnings of Prednisone vs. Cimzia
Common Side Effects for

•Greater risk of infections

•Mood and behavior changes

•Reduced adrenal gland function

•Changes in heart and kidney function

•Stomach problems

•Bone problems with long-term use

•Eye problems with long-term use

Common Side Effects for

•Serious infections

•Cancer

•Heart failure

•Nervous system problems

•Low blood cell counts

•Allergic reactions
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Compare Prednisone vs. Cimzia

Key takeaways

Summary of Prednisone vs. Cimzia

Indications of Prednisone vs. Cimzia

Pros and Cons of Prednisone vs. Cimzia

Common Side Effects of Prednisone vs. Cimzia

Warnings of Prednisone vs. Cimzia

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