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 is the CIMZIA prefilled
syringe, which is already mixed and ready to inject. The patient or a caretaker
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 are comfortable doing so, 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, or are not comfortable doing so, 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
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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