Certolizumab pegol has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and are then compared to side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
In these studies, the most common side effects of certolizumab pegol included:
- Upper respiratory tract infections (such as the common cold) -- in up to 20 percent of people
- Urinary tract infections (such as a bladder infection) -- up to 7 percent
- Joint pain -- up to 6 percent.
Less Common Side Effects Seen With Certolizumab Pegol
Less common certolizumab pegol side effects that have been reported include (but are not limited to):
- Hair loss (see Cimzia and Hair Loss)
- Menstrual problems or changes
- Anemia
- Elevated liver enzymes (found using a blood test).
It is possible that you may experience some or none of the side effects listed in this article. Unfortunately, there is no way for your healthcare provider to know beforehand if you will have side effects from a medicine that you have never tried. Therefore, make sure to let your healthcare provider know if you develop any side effects while taking certolizumab pegol or if something "just does not seem right." While it may not be a side effect of certolizumab pegol, your healthcare provider will be able to diagnose and treat the problem.
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