Provider Summary
Primary Uses
Crohn’s disease and immune-mediated inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis) per label/payer criteria.
Mechanism of Action
PEGylated anti‑TNF‑α monoclonal antibody fragment that neutralizes TNF‑α.
Pre-treatment / Baseline Requirement
Screen for active infection; TB screening (IGRA/PPD) and hepatitis B screening are commonly required for many biologics; baseline CBC and CMP/LFTs are often requested; review vaccination status (avoid live vaccines during therapy per PI); confirm pregnancy status when clinically appropriate; review prior biologic exposure and infection history. For pregnancy: certolizumab has minimal placental transfer relative to some TNF inhibitors; follow OB/rheum guidance.
Common side effects
Upper respiratory infection, urinary tract infection, rash, injection-site reactions, headache.
Serious adverse effects / key risks
Boxed warning: serious infections and malignancy; TB reactivation; HBV reactivation; demyelinating disease; heart failure worsening; cytopenias; hypersensitivity.
Referral requirements
Standard infusion referral form + drug-specific checklist
Patient & Caregiver Education
What it treats
Crohn’s disease and immune-mediated inflammatory conditions
How it works
Blocks TNF (a key inflammatory signal) to reduce inflammation.
Before treatment
Tell your clinician if you have an active infection/fever, are pregnant/planning pregnancy, or have major heart/nerve problems. Depending on the medication, you may need labs or screening tests (e.g., TB/hepatitis) and a vaccine review.
Common side effects
Upper respiratory infection, urinary tract infection, rash, injection-site reactions, headache.
Get urgent help for:
Boxed warning: serious infections and malignancy; TB reactivation; HBV reactivation; demyelinating disease; heart failure worsening; cytopenias; hypersensitivity.
On treatment Day:
Plan to stay for monitoring. If you feel dizzy, drowsy, or unwell afterward, do not drive and follow your clinician’s instructions.