CIMZIA is taken by injection (shot) just under the skin. The shots are given in
the thigh or abdomen (belly). This type of shot, given just under the skin, is called
a subcutaneous injection. This is different from an intravenous, or IV, injection,
which is given directly into a vein. RA treatments that require IV infusion are
typically done in a doctor's office or clinic and may take 1 to 3 hours. CIMZIA
is not administered intravenously.
You have options for how you take CIMZIA. CIMZIA comes in 2 forms. One is a powder
that is mixed with sterile water by the physician or nurse just before being injected.
This form can be given only by a doctor or nurse. The other form comes in the CIMZIA
prefilled syringe, which is already mixed and ready to inject. The patient or a
caregiver can give the shot using the CIMZIA prefilled syringe. You and your doctor
should decide which option is best for you.
Using the CIMZIA prefilled syringe at home
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CIMZIA prefilled syringe, designed in partnership with OXO Good Grips®
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If you are able to give yourself shots, and your doctor determines it's appropriate,
you may use the CIMZIA prefilled syringe at home after you have been trained by
a doctor or nurse how to do the shot properly. It is also possible for a friend
or loved one to be trained to help you with the shot.
Depending on the dose your doctor recommends, you would give yourself 1 shot or
2 shots each time you are due to take your CIMZIA. If your doctor has prescribed
2 shots, each should be given into a different area. For example, one shot might
be given in the thigh and the other in the abdomen (belly).
Learn more about the CIMZIA prefilled
syringe injection
Having a doctor or nurse administer CIMZIA
If you are not able to give yourself shots, and your doctor determines self-injection
is not appropriate for you, your doctor or a nurse can administer CIMZIA in your
doctor's office. Or, you may be able to have a nurse come to your home to administer
CIMZIA. When CIMZIA is administered by a doctor or nurse, it is given as the powdered
form that is mixed with sterile water before being injected. It is important to
keep all of your shot and follow-up appointments with your doctor.
Important Safety Information
Allergic reactions may occur. Signs of an allergic reaction include a skin rash, swelling of the face, tongue, lips or throat, or trouble breathing.
There have been rare reports of blood problems with CIMZIA use. Your body may not
make enough of the blood cells that help fight infections or help stop bleeding.
Symptoms include a fever that doesn't go away, bruising or bleeding very easily,
or looking very pale.
Immune reactions including a lupus-like syndrome have happened in people taking
CIMZIA. Symptoms include shortness of breath, joint pain, or a rash on the cheeks
or arms that worsens with sun exposure.
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How to Use the CIMZIA Prefilled Syringe Injection »