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You should never suddenly stop taking Cimzia (certolizumab pegol) or change your dose without talking to your doctor. While not addictive, it can lead to uncomfortable reactions or effects if it is suddenly stopped. Keep reading to learn more about Cimzia withdrawal.

How Long Do Cimzia Withdrawal Symptoms Last?

It’s not fully known how long Cimzia withdrawal symptoms last, if they are experienced at all. Because certolizumab pegol may affect liver function, a person may need to undergo liver function tests for several months after taking their last dose to ensure the organ is functioning properly.  

Withdrawal Symptoms

People taking Cimzia may notice side effects like:

  • redness,
  • itching, 
  • pain or swelling at the site of injection, 
  • headaches, and 
  • back pain.

These side effects may persist for an unknown amount of time as withdrawal symptoms after stopping the medication. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, serious side effects may include:

  • swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs,
  • hoarseness,
  • shortness of breath,
  • difficulty swallowing or breathing,
  • chest pain,
  • sudden weight gain,
  • hives,
  • hot flashes,
  • dizziness or fainting,
  • rash, especially on the cheeks or arms that worsens in the sun,
  • unusual bruising or bleeding,
  • pale skin,
  • blistering skin,
  • extreme tiredness,
  • numbness or tingling,
  • problems with vision,
  • weakness in the arms or legs,
  • joint pain,
  • loss of appetite, and
  • red scaly patches and/or pus-filled bumps on the skin.

Call your doctor immediately if you notice any of the above symptoms or effects.

Precautions

People older than 65 or anyone with other chronic underlying health conditions may be at an increased risk of side effects and withdrawal symptoms.

Treatment Options

Talk to your doctor about how to change or stop taking certolizumab pegol. If you’re experiencing uncomfortable side effects or withdrawal symptoms, a doctor may alter your dose or prescribe other medications to help alleviate the symptoms.

Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.


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