Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Cimzia vs Simponi: Biologic Drugs for RA

With nine biologic medications available to treat rheumatoid arthritis, it can be difficult knowing which to choose and how they compare. Read my previous post - Biologic Medications for RA: The Big Picture - for a run-down of medications including Actemra, Cimzia, Simponi, Rituxan, Orencia, Humira, Kineret, Remicade and Enbrel.

Today, we’re comparing Cimzia and Simponi which are medications FDA-approved last year for the treatment of moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis.

TNF-Inhibitors

CIMZIA (certolizumab pegol) and SIMPONI (golimumab ) are both monoclonal antibody therapies which block the action of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-alpha). TNF-alpha is a substance in the body which contributes to inflammation. Other anti-TNF therapies include Humira, Remicade, and Enbrel.

In addition to rheumatoid arthritis, these medications are approved for the treatment of other diseases. CIMZIA is FDA-approved for the treatment of Crohn’s disease, as are Humira and Remicade. SIMPONI is FDA-approved for the treatment of ankylosing spondylisis and psoriatic arthritis, as are Humira, Remicade, and Enbrel.

Read this post in its entirety:

Biologic Medications for RA: Cimzia vs. Simponi

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