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Compare Remicade vs. Cimzia

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

Key takeaways

Remicade (infliximab) and Cimzia (certolizumab pegol) are both injectable medications used to treat autoimmune conditions, but they have some key differences. Remicade is given through an IV infusion by a healthcare provider, while Cimzia is injected under the skin and can be self-administered. Remicade is typically given every 6 to 8 weeks, whereas Cimzia is usually given every 2 to 4 weeks. Remicade is available only as a brand-name medication, which can be expensive, but it does have several biosimilars which may make it more affordable. Cimzia is also available as brand-name medication but offers the convenience of prefilled syringes. Both medications block a protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) to reduce inflammation. Remicade is approved for use in children 6 years and older for certain conditions, whereas Cimzia is not approved for use in children. Additionally, Remicade requires monitoring during and after infusions for side effects, while Cimzia users need to be trained on proper injection techniques. Both medications can increase the risk of serious infections and have similar side effects.

  • Remicade (infliximab)
    Cimzia (certolizumab)
  • Remicade (infliximab)
    Cimzia (certolizumab)

  • Summary of Remicade vs. Cimzia

    Summary for Biologic DMARD
    Prescription only

    Remicade (infliximab) is an injectable medication used to treat many autoimmune conditions, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It's given through an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare provider.

    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.

  • Indications of Remicade vs. Cimzia

    Indications for
    •Moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease (CD)
    •Moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (UC)
    •Moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
    •Ankylosing spondylitis (AS)
    •Psoriatic arthritis (PsA)
    •Severe plaque psoriasis (PsO)
    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

  • Pros and Cons of Remicade vs. Cimzia

    Pros and Const for Biologic DMARD
    Pros
    •Can be used for many autoimmune conditions
    •Typically only needs to be given every 6 to 8 weeks
    •Can be used in children 6 years of age and older for UC and CD
    Cons
    •Can only be given as an IV infusion by a healthcare professional
    •Can cause a lot of side effects
    •Brand name only, which can be expensive
    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

  • Common Side Effects of Remicade vs. Cimzia

    Common Side Effects for
    •Infections
    •Nausea
    •Infusion-related reactions (e.g., headache, flushing, shortness of breath, rash)
    •Headache
    •Diarrhea
    •Stomach pain
    •Sore throat
    •Cough
    •Rash
    •Bronchitis
    •Indigestion
    •Tiredness
    •General pain
    •Joint pain
    Common Side Effects for
    •Upper respiratory infections (18%)
    •Rash (9%)
    •Urinary tract infections (8%)

  • Warnings of Remicade vs. Cimzia

    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious or deadly infections
    •Cancer
    •Liver problems and liver failure
    •Heart problems
    •Low blood cell counts
    •Nervous system problems
    •Medications to avoid
    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious infections
    •Cancer
    •Heart failure
    •Allergic reactions
    •Nervous system problems
    •Blood problems
    •Lupus-like condition
    •Live vaccines

  • Prices with our coupons for Remicade vs. Cimzia

    Learn more about Remicade
    Learn more about Cimzia

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