1.1 Crohn's Disease

CIMZIA is indicated for reducing signs and symptoms of Crohn's disease and maintaining clinical response in adult patients with moderately to severely active disease who have had an inadequate response to conventional therapy.

1.2 Rheumatoid Arthritis

CIMZIA is indicated for the treatment of adults with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

1.3 Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

CIMZIA is indicated for the treatment of active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA) in patients 2 years of age and older.

1.4 Psoriatic Arthritis

CIMZIA is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

1.5 Ankylosing Spondylitis

CIMZIA is indicated for the treatment of adults with active ankylosing spondylitis (AS). [see Clinical Studies (14.5)]

1.6 Non-radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis

CIMZIA is indicated for the treatment of adults with active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) with objective signs of inflammation [see Clinical Studies (14.6)].

1.7 Plaque Psoriasis

CIMZIA is indicated for the treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis (PsO) who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy [see Clinical Studies (14.7)]

2.1 Crohn's Disease

The recommended initial adult dose of CIMZIA is 400 mg (given as two subcutaneous injections of 200 mg) initially, and at Weeks 2 and 4. In patients who obtain a clinical response, the recommended maintenance regimen is 400 mg every four weeks.

2.2 Rheumatoid Arthritis

The recommended dose of CIMZIA for adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis is 400 mg (given as two subcutaneous injections of 200 mg) initially and at Weeks 2 and 4, followed by 200 mg every other week. For maintenance dosing, CIMZIA 400 mg every 4 weeks can be considered [see Clinical Studies (14.2)].

2.3 Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

The recommended dose of CIMZIA for patients 2 years of age and older with pJIA is based on weight as shown below.

There is no dosage form for Cimzia that allows for patient self-administration for doses below 200 mg. Doses less than 200 mg require administration by a health care professional using the vial kit.

2.4 Psoriatic Arthritis

The recommended dose of CIMZIA for adult patients with psoriatic arthritis is 400 mg (given as 2 subcutaneous injections of 200 mg each) initially and at week 2 and 4, followed by 200 mg every other week. For maintenance dosing, CIMZIA 400 mg every 4 weeks can be considered [see Clinical Studies (14.4)].

2.5 Ankylosing Spondylitis

The recommended dose of CIMZIA for adult patients with ankylosing spondylitis is 400 mg (given as 2 subcutaneous injections of 200 mg each) initially and at weeks 2 and 4, followed by 200 mg every 2 weeks or 400 mg every 4 weeks.

2.6 Non-radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis

The recommended dose of CIMZIA for adult patients with non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis is 400 mg (given as 2 subcutaneous injections of 200 mg each) initially and at weeks 2 and 4, followed by 200 mg every 2 weeks or 400 mg every 4 weeks.

2.7 Plaque Psoriasis

The recommended dose of CIMZIA for adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis is 400 mg (given as 2 subcutaneous injections of 200 mg each) every other week.

For some patients (with body weight less than or equal to 90 kg), CIMZIA 400 mg (given as 2 subcutaneous injections of 200 mg each) initially and at Weeks 2 and 4, followed by 200 mg every other week can be considered [see Clinical Studies (14.7)].

2.8 Preparation and Administration of CIMZIA Using the Lyophilized Powder for Injection

CIMZIA Lyophilized powder should be prepared and administered by a health care professional. CIMZIA is provided in a package that contains everything required to reconstitute and inject the drug [see How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16)]. Step-by-step preparation and administration instructions are provided below.

Preparation and Storage

1. If refrigerated, remove CIMZIA from the refrigerator and allow the vial(s) to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before reconstituting. Do not warm the vial in any other way. Use appropriate aseptic technique when preparing and administering CIMZIA.
2. Reconstitute the vial(s) of CIMZIA with 1 mL of Sterile Water for Injection, USP using the 20-gauge needle provided. The sterile water for injection should be directed at the vial wall rather than directly on CIMZIA.
3. Gently swirl each vial of CIMZIA for about one minute without shaking, assuring that all of the powder comes in contact with the Sterile Water for Injection. The swirling should be as gentle as possible in order to avoid creating a foaming effect.
4. Continue swirling every 5 minutes as long as non-dissolved particles are observed. Full reconstitution may take as long as 30 minutes. The final reconstituted solution contains 200 mg/mL and should be clear to opalescent, colorless to yellow liquid essentially free from particulates.
5. Once reconstituted, CIMZIA can be stored in the vials for up to 24 hours between 2° to 8° C (36° to 46° F) prior to injection. Do not freeze.

Administration

1. Prior to injecting, reconstituted CIMZIA should be at room temperature but do not leave reconstituted CIMZIA at room temperature for more than two hours prior to administration.
2. Withdraw the reconstituted solution into a separate syringe for each vial using a new 20-gauge needle for each vial so that each syringe contains the required volume of CIMZIA [see Dosage and Administration (2.1-2.7)].
3. Replace the 20-gauge needle(s) on the syringes with a 23-gauge(s) for administration.
4. Inject the full contents of the syringe(s) subcutaneously, by pinching the skin of the thigh or abdomen. Where a 400 mg dose is required, two injections are required, therefore, separate sites should be used for each 200 mg injection.

2.9 Preparation and Administration of CIMZIA Using the Prefilled Syringe

After proper training in subcutaneous injection technique, a patient may self-inject with the CIMZIA Prefilled Syringe if a physician determines that it is appropriate.

• If refrigerated, remove the prefilled syringe from the carton and let it warm to room temperature.
• Inspect the liquid in the prefilled syringe. It should be clear to opalescent and colorless to yellow and free from particulates. Discard the syringe if cloudy, discolored or contains particulates.
• Suitable sites for injection include the thigh or abdomen at least 2 inches away from the navel. Inject at least 1 inch from the previous site.
• Do not inject into areas where the skin is tender, bruised, red or hard, or where there are scars or stretch marks.

The needle shield inside the removable cap of the CIMZIA prefilled syringe contains a derivative of natural rubber latex which may cause allergic reactions and should be handled with caution by latex-sensitive individuals [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

2.10 Monitoring to Assess Safety

Before initiation of therapy with CIMZIA, all patients must be evaluated for both active and inactive (latent) tuberculosis infection. The possibility of undetected latent tuberculosis should be considered in patients who have immigrated from or traveled to countries with a high prevalence of tuberculosis or had close contact with a person with active tuberculosis. Appropriate screening tests (e.g. tuberculin skin test and chest x-ray) should be performed in all patients.

2.11 Concomitant Medications

CIMZIA may be used as monotherapy or concomitantly with non-biological disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

The use of CIMZIA in combination with biological DMARDs or other tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker therapy is not recommended.

For Injection: 200 mg of white to off-white lyophilized powder in a single-dose vial for reconstitution

Injection: 200 mg/mL clear to opalescent, colorless to yellow solution in a single-dose prefilled syringe

5.1 Risk of Serious Infections

Patients treated with CIMZIA are at an increased risk for developing serious infections involving various organ systems and sites that may lead to hospitalization or death.

Opportunistic infections due to bacterial, mycobacterial, invasive fungal, viral, parasitic, or other opportunistic pathogens including aspergillosis, blastomycosis, candidiasis, coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, legionellosis, listeriosis, pneumocystosis and tuberculosis have been reported with TNF blockers. Patients have frequently presented with disseminated rather than localized disease.

Treatment with CIMZIA should not be initiated in patients with an active infection, including clinically important localized infections. Patients greater than 65 years of age, patients with co-morbid conditions, and/or patients taking concomitant immunosuppressants (e.g. corticosteroids or methotrexate) may be at a greater risk of infection. The risks and benefits of treatment should be considered prior to initiating therapy in patients:

• with chronic or recurrent infection
• who have been exposed to tuberculosis
• with a history of an opportunistic infection
• who have resided or traveled in areas of endemic tuberculosis or endemic mycoses, such as histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, or blastomycosis
• with underlying conditions that may predispose them to infection

5.2 Malignancies

In the controlled portions of clinical studies of some TNF blockers, more cases of malignancies have been observed among patients receiving TNF blockers compared to control patients. During controlled and open-labeled portions of CIMZIA studies of Crohn's disease and other diseases, malignancies (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer) were observed at a rate (95% confidence interval) of 0.5 (0.4, 0.7) per 100 patient-years among 4,650 CIMZIA-treated patients versus a rate of 0.6 (0.1, 1.7) per 100 patient-years among 1,319 placebo-treated patients. During CIMZIA studies of psoriasis, malignancies (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer) were observed corresponding to an incidence rate of 0.5 (0.2, 1.0) per 100 subject-years among a total of 995 subjects who received CIMZIA. The size of the control group and limited duration of the controlled portions of the studies precludes the ability to draw firm conclusions.

Malignancies, some fatal, have been reported among children, adolescents, and young adults who received treatment with TNF-blocking agents (initiation of therapy ≤ 18 years of age), of which CIMZIA is a member. Approximately half the cases were lymphomas, including Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The other cases represented a variety of different malignancies and included rare malignancies usually associated with immunosuppression and malignancies that are not usually observed in children and adolescents. The malignancies occurred after a median of 30 months of therapy (range 1 to 84 months). Most of the patients were receiving concomitant immunosuppressants. These cases were reported post-marketing and are derived from a variety of sources including registries and spontaneous post-marketing reports. CIMZIA is not indicated for use in pediatric patients.

In the controlled portions of clinical trials of all the TNF blockers, more cases of lymphoma have been observed among patients receiving TNF blockers compared to control patients. In controlled studies of CIMZIA for Crohn's disease and other investigational uses, there was one case of lymphoma among 2,657 Cimzia-treated patients and one case of Hodgkin's lymphoma among 1,319 placebo-treated patients.

In the CIMZIA RA clinical trials (placebo-controlled and open-label) a total of three cases of lymphoma were observed among 2,367 patients. This is approximately 2-fold higher than expected in the general population. Patients with RA, particularly those with highly active disease, are at a higher risk for the development of lymphoma. In the CIMZIA PsO clinical trials (placebo-controlled and open-label) there was one case of Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Rates in clinical studies for CIMZIA cannot be compared to the rates of clinical trials of other TNF blockers and may not predict the rates observed when CIMZIA is used in a broader patient population. Patients with Crohn's disease that require chronic exposure to immunosuppressant therapies may be at higher risk than the general population for the development of lymphoma, even in the absence of TNF blocker therapy [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. The potential role of TNF blocker therapy in the development of malignancies in adults is not known.

Postmarketing cases of hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma (HSTCL), a rare type of T-cell lymphoma that has a very aggressive disease course and is usually fatal, have been reported in patients treated with TNF blockers, including CIMZIA. The majority of reported TNF blocker cases occurred in adolescent and young adult males with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Almost all of these patients had received treatment with the immunosuppressants azathioprine and/or 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) concomitantly with a TNF blocker at or prior to diagnosis. It is uncertain whether the occurrence of HSTCL is related to use of a TNF blocker or a TNF blocker in combination with these other immunosuppressants. The potential risk of using a TNF blocker in combination with azathioprine or 6-MP should be carefully considered.

Cases of acute and chronic leukemia have been reported in association with post-marketing TNF-blocker use in RA and other indications. Even in the absence of TNF-blocker therapy, patients with RA may be at a higher risk (approximately 2-fold) than the general population for the development of leukemia.

Melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma have been reported in patients treated with TNF blockers, including CIMZIA. Periodic skin examinations are recommended for all patients, particularly those with risk factors for skin cancer.

5.3 Heart Failure

Cases of worsening congestive heart failure (CHF) and new onset CHF have been reported with TNF blockers, including CIMZIA. CIMZIA has not been formally studied in patients with CHF; however, in clinical studies in patients with CHF with another TNF blocker, worsening congestive heart failure (CHF) and increased mortality due to CHF were observed. Exercise caution in patients with heart failure and monitor them carefully [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

5.4 Hypersensitivity Reactions

The following symptoms that could be compatible with hypersensitivity reactions have been reported rarely following CIMZIA administration to patients: angioedema, anaphylaxis, dyspnea, hypotension, rash, serum sickness, and urticaria. Some of these reactions occurred after the first administration of CIMZIA. If such reactions occur, discontinue further administration of CIMZIA and institute appropriate therapy. There are no data on the risks of using CIMZIA in patients who have experienced a severe hypersensitivity reaction towards another TNF blocker; in these patients caution is needed [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

The needle shield inside the removable cap of the CIMZIA prefilled syringe contains a derivative of natural rubber latex which may cause an allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to latex.

5.5 Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation

Use of TNF blockers, including CIMZIA, has been associated with reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in patients who are chronic carriers of this virus. In some instances, HBV reactivation occurring in conjunction with TNF blocker therapy has been fatal. The majority of reports have occurred in patients concomitantly receiving other medications that suppress the immune system, which may also contribute to HBV reactivation.

Test patients for HBV infection before initiating treatment with CIMZIA. For patients who test positive for HBV infection, consultation with a physician with expertise in the treatment of hepatitis B is recommended. Adequate data are not available on the safety or efficacy of treating patients who are carriers of HBV with anti-viral therapy in conjunction with TNF blocker therapy to prevent HBV reactivation. Patients who are carriers of HBV and require treatment with CIMZIA should be closely monitored for clinical and laboratory signs of active HBV infection throughout therapy and for several months following termination of therapy.

In patients who develop HBV reactivation, discontinue CIMZIA and initiate effective anti-viral therapy with appropriate supportive treatment. The safety of resuming TNF blocker therapy after HBV reactivation is controlled is not known. Therefore, exercise caution when considering resumption of CIMZIA therapy in this situation and monitor patients closely.

5.6 Neurologic Reactions

Use of TNF blockers, of which CIMZIA is a member, has been associated with rare cases of new onset or exacerbation of clinical symptoms and/or radiographic evidence of central nervous system demyelinating disease, including multiple sclerosis, and with peripheral demyelinating disease, including Guillain-Barré syndrome. Exercise caution in considering the use of CIMZIA in patients with pre-existing or recent-onset central or peripheral nervous system demyelinating disorders. Rare cases of neurological disorders, including seizure disorder, optic neuritis, and peripheral neuropathy have been reported in patients treated with CIMZIA [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

5.7 Hematological Reactions

Rare reports of pancytopenia, including aplastic anemia, have been reported with TNF blockers. Adverse reactions of the hematologic system, including medically significant cytopenia (e.g., leukopenia, pancytopenia, thrombocytopenia) have been infrequently reported with CIMZIA [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. The causal relationship of these events to CIMZIA remains unclear.

Although no high risk group has been identified, exercise caution in patients being treated with CIMZIA who have ongoing, or a history of, significant hematologic abnormalities. Advise all patients to seek immediate medical attention if they develop signs and symptoms suggestive of blood dyscrasias or infection (e.g., persistent fever, bruising, bleeding, pallor) while on CIMZIA. Consider discontinuation of CIMZIA therapy in patients with confirmed significant hematologic abnormalities.

5.8 Use with Biological Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (Biological DMARDs)

Serious infections were seen in clinical studies with concurrent use of anakinra (an interleukin-1 antagonist) and another TNF blocker, etanercept, with no added benefit compared to etanercept alone. A higher risk of serious infections was also observed in combination use of TNF blockers with abatacept and rituximab. Because of the nature of the adverse events seen with this combination therapy, similar toxicities may also result from the use of CIMZIA in this combination. Therefore, the use of CIMZIA in combination with other biological DMARDs is not recommended [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].

5.9 Autoimmunity

Treatment with CIMZIA may result in the formation of autoantibodies and rarely, in the development of a lupus-like syndrome. If a patient develops symptoms suggestive of a lupus-like syndrome following treatment with CIMZIA, discontinue treatment [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

5.10 Immunizations

Avoid use of live vaccines during or immediately prior to initiation of therapy with CIMZIA. Update immunizations in agreement with current immunization guidelines prior to initiating CIMZIA therapy.

In a placebo-controlled clinical trial of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, no difference was detected in antibody response to vaccine between CIMZIA and placebo treatment groups when the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine and influenza vaccine were administered concurrently with CIMZIA. Similar proportions of patients developed protective levels of anti-vaccine antibodies between CIMZIA and placebo treatment groups; however patients receiving CIMZIA and concomitant methotrexate had a lower humoral response compared with patients receiving CIMZIA alone. The clinical significance of this is unknown.

5.11 Immunosuppression

Since TNF mediates inflammation and modulates cellular immune responses, the possibility exists for TNF blockers, including CIMZIA, to affect host defenses against infections and malignancies. The impact of treatment with CIMZIA on the development and course of malignancies, as well as active and/or chronic infections, is not fully understood [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2, 5.5) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. The safety and efficacy of CIMZIA in patients with immunosuppression has not been formally evaluated.

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying and controlled conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug, and may not predict the rates observed in a broader patient population in clinical practice.

In premarketing controlled trials of all adult patient populations combined the most common adverse reactions (≥ 8%) were upper respiratory infections (18%), rash (9%) and urinary tract infections (8%).

6.2 Immunogenicity

6.3 Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of CIMZIA. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to estimate reliably their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Vascular disorder: systemic vasculitis has been identified during post-approval use of TNF blockers.

Skin: case of severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, erythema multiforme, new or worsening psoriasis (all sub-types including pustular and palmoplantar), and lichenoid skin reaction have been identified during post-approval use of TNF blockers.

Immune System Disorders: sarcoidosis

Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified (including cysts and polyps): Melanoma, Merkel cell carcinoma (neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

7.1 Use with Anakinra, Abatacept, Rituximab, and Natalizumab

An increased risk of serious infections has been seen in clinical studies of other TNF-blocking agents used in combination with anakinra or abatacept, with no added benefit. Formal drug interaction studies have not been performed with rituximab or natalizumab. Because of the nature of the adverse events seen with these combinations with TNF blocker therapy, similar toxicities may also result from the use of CIMZIA in these combinations. There is not enough information to assess the safety and efficacy of such combination therapy. Therefore, the use of CIMZIA in combination with anakinra, abatacept, rituximab, or natalizumab is not recommended [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].

7.2 Live Vaccines

Avoid use of live (including attenuated) vaccines during or immediately prior to initiation of therapy with CIMZIA [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].

7.3 Laboratory Tests

Interference with certain coagulation assays has been detected in patients treated with CIMZIA. Certolizumab pegol may cause erroneously elevated activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) assay results in patients without coagulation abnormalities. This effect has been observed with the PTT-Lupus Anticoagulant (LA) test and Standard Target Activated Partial Thromboplastin time (STA-PTT) Automate tests from Diagnostica Stago, and the HemosIL APTT-SP liquid and HemosIL lyophilized silica tests from Instrumentation Laboratories. Other aPTT assays may be affected as well. Interference with thrombin time (TT) and prothrombin time (PT) assays has not been observed. There is no evidence that CIMZIA therapy has an effect on in vivo coagulation.

8.1 Pregnancy

8.2 Lactation

8.4 Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of CIMZIA for active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis has been established in pediatric patients 2 years of age and older. The use of CIMZIA in this age group is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of CIMZIA in adults with RA, pharmacokinetic data from adults with RA and pediatric patients with JIA with active polyarthritis, and safety data from an open-label clinical study in 193 pediatric patients 2 to < 18 years of age with JIA with active polyarthritis. The observed pre-dose (trough) concentrations are generally comparable between adults with RA and pediatric patients with JIA with active polyarthritis [see Pharmacokinetics (12.3)].

The safety and effectiveness for CIMZIA in pediatric patients less than 2 years of age with pJIA have not been established.

The safety and effectiveness of CIMZIA have not been established in pediatric patients for other indications. CIMZIA was evaluated for the treatment of pediatric patients with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease. Effectiveness was not demonstrated in an open-label, randomized, parallel-group, multiple dose study for a period of up to 62 weeks in 99 subjects aged 6 to 17 years. The study was ended prematurely because of a high number of patient discontinuations.

Due to its inhibition of TNFα, CIMZIA administered during pregnancy could affect immune responses in the in utero-exposed newborn and infant [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

8.5 Geriatric Use

Clinical studies of CIMZIA did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger adult patients. Population pharmacokinetic analyses of patients enrolled in CIMZIA clinical studies concluded that there was no apparent difference in drug concentration regardless of age. Because there is a higher incidence of infections in the elderly population in general, use caution when treating the elderly with CIMZIA [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

12.1 Mechanism of Action

Certolizumab pegol binds to human TNFα with a KD of 90pM. TNFα is a key pro-inflammatory cytokine with a central role in inflammatory processes. Certolizumab pegol selectively neutralizes TNFα (IC90 of 4 ng/mL for inhibition of human TNFα in the in vitro L929 murine fibrosarcoma cytotoxicity assay) but does not neutralize lymphotoxin α (TNFβ). Certolizumab pegol cross-reacts poorly with TNF from rodents and rabbits, therefore in vivo efficacy was evaluated using animal models in which human TNFα was the physiologically active molecule.

Certolizumab pegol was shown to neutralize membrane-associated and soluble human TNFα in a dose-dependent manner. Incubation of monocytes with certolizumab pegol resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of LPS-induced TNFα and IL-1β production in human monocytes.

Certolizumab pegol does not contain a fragment crystallizable (Fc) region, which is normally present in a complete antibody, and therefore does not fix complement or cause antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity in vitro. It does not induce apoptosis in vitro in human peripheral blood-derived monocytes or lymphocytes, nor does certolizumab pegol induce neutrophil degranulation.

A tissue reactivity study was carried out ex vivo to evaluate potential cross-reactivity of certolizumab pegol with cryosections of normal human tissues. Certolizumab pegol showed no reactivity with a designated standard panel of normal human tissues.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

Biological activities ascribed to TNFα include the upregulation of cellular adhesion molecules and chemokines, upregulation of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and class II molecules, and direct leukocyte activation. TNFα stimulates the production of downstream inflammatory mediators, including interleukin-1, prostaglandins, platelet activating factor, and nitric oxide. Elevated levels of TNFα have been implicated in the pathology of Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Certolizumab pegol binds to TNFα, inhibiting its role as a key mediator of inflammation. TNFα is strongly expressed in the bowel wall in areas involved by Crohn's disease and fecal concentrations of TNFα in patients with Crohn's disease have been shown to reflect clinical severity of the disease. After treatment with certolizumab pegol, patients with Crohn's disease demonstrated a decrease in the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP). Increased TNFα levels are found in the synovial fluid of rheumatoid arthritis patients and play an important role in the joint destruction that is a hallmark of this disease.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, and Impairment of Fertility

Long-term animal studies of CIMZIA have not been conducted to assess its carcinogenic potential. Certolizumab pegol was not genotoxic in the Ames test, the human peripheral blood lymphocytes chromosomal aberration assay, or the mouse bone marrow micronucleus assay.

Since certolizumab pegol does not cross-react with mouse or rat TNFα, reproduction studies were performed in rats using a rodent anti-murine TNFα pegylated Fab fragment (cTN3 PF), similar to certolizumab pegol. The cTN3 PF had no effects on the fertility and general reproductive performance of male and female rats at intravenous doses up 100 mg/kg, administered twice weekly.

14.1 Crohn's Disease

The efficacy and safety of CIMZIA were assessed in two double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled studies in patients aged 18 years and older with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease, as defined by a Crohn's Disease Activity Index (CDAI) of 220 to 450 points, inclusive. CIMZIA was administered subcutaneously at a dose of 400 mg in both studies. Stable concomitant medications for Crohn's disease were permitted.

14.2 Rheumatoid Arthritis

The efficacy and safety of CIMZIA were assessed in four randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind studies (RA-I, RA-II, RA-III, and RA-IV) in patients ≥ 18 years of age with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed according to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria. Patients had ≥ 9 swollen and tender joints and had active RA for at least 6 months prior to baseline. CIMZIA was administered subcutaneously in combination with MTX at stable doses of at least 10 mg weekly in Studies RA-I, RA-II, and RA-III. CIMZIA was administered as monotherapy in Study RA-IV.

Study RA-I and Study RA-II evaluated patients who had received MTX for at least 6 months prior to study medication, but had an incomplete response to MTX alone. Patients were treated with a loading dose of 400 mg at Weeks 0, 2 and 4 (for both treatment arms) or placebo followed by either 200 mg or 400 mg of CIMZIA or placebo every other week, in combination with MTX for 52 weeks in Study RA-I and for 24 weeks in Study RA-II. Patients were evaluated for signs and symptoms and structural damage using the ACR20 response at Week 24 (RA-I and RA-II) and modified Total Sharp Score (mTSS) at Week 52 (RA-I). The open-label extension follow-up study enrolled 846 patients who received 400 mg of CIMZIA every other week.

Study RA-III evaluated 247 patients who had active disease despite receiving MTX for at least 6 months prior to study enrollment. Patients received 400 mg of CIMZIA every four weeks for 24 weeks without a prior loading dose. Patients were evaluated for signs and symptoms of RA using the ACR20 at Week 24.

Study RA-IV (monotherapy) evaluated 220 patients who had failed at least one DMARD use prior to receiving CIMZIA. Patients were treated with CIMZIA 400 mg or placebo every 4 weeks for 24 weeks. Patients were evaluated for signs and symptoms of active RA using the ACR20 at Week 24.

14.3 Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

The efficacy of CIMZIA in pediatric patients with pJIA is based on pharmacokinetic exposure and extrapolation of the established efficacy of CIMZIA in RA patients.

The efficacy of CIMZIA was also assessed in a multi-center, open-label study NCT01550003 in 193 patients 2 to 17 years of age with JIA with active polyarthritis with an inadequate response or intolerance to at least 1 DMARD (nonbiologic or biologic). Of those, 105 received the recommended dose. The patients had the following subtypes of JIA: polyarthritis rheumatoid factor-positive (20.0%), polyarthritis rheumatoid factor-negative (44.8%), extended oligoarthritis (13.3%), juvenile psoriatic arthritis (4.8%), and enthesitis-related arthritis (19.0%). Patients could be on stable methotrexate, glucocorticoids, and/or NSAIDs. Efficacy was assessed as secondary endpoints through Week 24. The efficacy was generally consistent with responses in patients with RA.

14.4 Psoriatic Arthritis

The efficacy and safety of CIMZIA were assessed in a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial (PsA001) in 409 patients aged 18 years and older with active psoriatic arthritis despite DMARD therapy. Patients in this study had ≥ 3 swollen and tender joints and adult-onset PsA of at least 6 months' duration as defined by the Classification Criteria for Psoriatic Arthritis (CASPAR) criteria, and increased acute phase reactants. Patients had failed one or more DMARDs. Previous treatment with one anti-TNF biologic therapy was allowed, and 20% of patients had prior anti-TNF biologic exposure. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs and conventional DMARDs were 73% and 70 % respectively.

Patients received a loading dose of CIMZIA 400 mg at Weeks 0, 2 and 4 (for both treatment arms) or placebo followed by either CIMZIA 200 mg every other week or CIMZIA 400 mg every 4 weeks or placebo every other week. Patients were evaluated for signs and symptoms and structural damage using the ACR20 response at Week 12 and modified Total Sharp Score (mTSS) at Week 24.

14.5 Ankylosing Spondylitis

The efficacy and safety of CIMZIA were assessed in one multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (AS-1) in 325 patients ≥18 years of age with adult-onset active axial spondyloarthritis for at least 3 months. The majority of patients in the study had active AS.

Patients had active disease as defined by the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) ≥4, and spinal pain ≥4 on a 0 to 10 Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Patients must have been intolerant to or had an inadequate response to at least one NSAID. Patients were treated with a loading dose of CIMZIA 400 mg at Weeks 0, 2 and 4 (for both treatment arms) or placebo followed by either 200 mg of CIMZIA every 2 weeks or 400 mg of CIMZIA every 4 weeks or placebo. Concomitant NSAIDs were received by 91% of the AS patients. The primary efficacy variable was the proportion of patients achieving an ASAS20 response at Week 12.

14.6 Non-radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis

The efficacy and safety of CIMZIA were assessed in a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (nr-axSpA-1) (NCT02552212) in 317 subjects ≥18 years of age with adult-onset active axial spondyloarthritis for at least 12 months. Patients must have had objective signs of inflammation indicated by C-reactive protein (CRP) levels above the upper limit of normal and/or sacroiliitis on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), indicative of inflammatory disease [positive CRP (> ULN) and/or positive MRI], but without definitive radiographic evidence of structural damage on sacroiliac joints. Patients had active disease as defined by the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) ≥4, and spinal pain ≥4 on a 0 to 10 Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Patients must have been intolerant to or had an inadequate response to at least two NSAIDs. Patients were treated with a loading dose of CIMZIA 400 mg at Weeks 0, 2 and 4 or placebo followed by 200 mg of CIMZIA every 2 weeks or placebo. Utilization and dose adjustment of concomitant medications (including NSAIDs, DMARDs, corticosteroids, opioids) were permitted at any time. Patients were allowed to transition to use of open-label CIMZIA at any time at the discretion of the investigator. However, no patients transitioned before Week 12. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients achieving an Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score-Major Improvement (ASDAS-MI) response at Week 52. The ASDAS is a composite weighted scoring system that assesses disease activity, including patient-reported outcomes and CRP levels. A response in ASDAS-Major Improvement (MI) is indicated by a change from baseline of ≥2.0 in the ASDAS and/or reaching the lowest possible ASDAS value.

14.7 Plaque Psoriasis

Three multicenter, randomized, double-blind studies (Study PS-1 [NCT02326298], Study PS-2 [NCT02326272], and Study PS-3 [NCT02346240]) enrolled subjects 18 years of age or older with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis who were eligible for systemic therapy or phototherapy. Subjects had a Physician Global Assessment (PGA) of ≥ 3 ("moderate") on a 5-category scale of overall disease severity, a Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score ≥ 12, and body surface area (BSA) involvement of ≥ 10%.

Studies PS-1 (234 subjects) and PS-2 (227 subjects) randomized subjects to placebo, CIMZIA 200 mg every other week (following a loading dose of CIMZIA 400 mg at Weeks 0, 2, and 4), or CIMZIA 400 mg every other week. Studies PS-1 and PS-2 assessed the co-primary endpoints of the proportion of patients who achieved a PASI 75 and PGA of "clear" or "almost clear" with at least a 2-point improvement at Week 16. Other evaluated outcomes were PASI 90 at Week 16 and maintenance of efficacy to Week 48.

Study PS-3 randomized 559 subjects to receive placebo, CIMZIA 200 mg every other week (following a loading dose of CIMZIA 400 mg at Weeks 0, 2, and 4), CIMZIA 400 mg every other week up to Week 16, or a biologic comparator (up to Week 12). Study PS-3 assessed the proportion of patients who achieved a PASI 75 at Week 12 as the primary endpoint. Other evaluated outcomes were PGA of "clear" or "almost clear" at Week 16, PASI 75 at Week 16, PASI 90 at Week 16, and maintenance of efficacy to Week 48.

Of the 850 subjects randomized to receive placebo or CIMZIA in these placebo-controlled studies, 29% of patients were naïve to prior systemic therapy for the treatment of psoriasis, 47% had received prior phototherapy or chemophototherapy, and 30% had received prior biologic therapy for the treatment of psoriasis. Of the 850 subjects, 14% had received at least one TNF alpha agent and 16% had received an anti-IL agent. Eighteen percent of subjects reported a history of psoriatic arthritis at baseline.

Across all studies and treatment groups, the mean PASI score at baseline was 20 and ranged from 12 to 69. The baseline PGA score ranged from moderate (70%) to severe (30%). Mean baseline BSA was 25% and ranged from 10% to 96%. Subjects were predominantly men (64%) and White (94%), with a mean age of 46 years.

How Supplied

CIMZIA (certolizumab pegol) for injection is a sterile white, lyophilized powder for subcutaneous use after reconstitution in the following packaging configuration.

CIMZIA (certolizumab pegol) injection is a sterile, clear to opalescent, colorless to yellow solution for subcutaneous use in the following packaging configurations.

The needle shield inside the removable cap of the CIMZIA prefilled syringe contains a derivative of natural rubber latex which may cause allergic reactions and should be handled with caution by latex-sensitive individuals [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

Storage and Handling

Refrigerate CIMZIA vials and prefilled syringes between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) in the original carton to protect from light. Do not freeze. Do not shake. Do not separate contents of carton prior to use. Do not use beyond expiration date, which is located on the drug label and carton.

Unopened CIMZIA lyophilized vials may also be stored at room temperature up to a maximum of 25°C (77°F) for 6 months, but not exceeding the original expiration date. If stored at room temperature, do not place back in refrigerator and write the new expiration date on the carton in the space provided.

When necessary, CIMZIA prefilled syringes may be stored at room temperature up to 77°F (25°C) in the original carton to protect from light for a single period of up to 7 days. Once stored at room temperature, do not place back in refrigerator. Write the date removed from the refrigerator in the space provided on the carton and discard if not used within the 7-day period.

Risk of Serious Infections

Inform patients that CIMZIA may lower the ability of the immune system to fight infections. Instruct patients of the importance of contacting their doctor if they develop any symptoms of infection, including tuberculosis and reactivation of hepatitis B virus infections.

Because caution should be exercised in prescribing CIMZIA to patients with clinically important active infections, advise patients of the importance of informing their health care providers about all aspects of their health [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.5)].

Malignancies

Counsel patients about the possible risk of lymphoma and other malignancies while receiving CIMZIA [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Other Medical Conditions

Advise patients to report any signs of new or worsening medical conditions such as heart disease, neurological disease, or autoimmune disorders [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3, 5.6, 5.9). Advise patients to report promptly any symptoms suggestive of a cytopenia such as bruising, bleeding, or persistent fever [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Advise patients to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any symptoms of severe hypersensitivity reactions. Advise latex-sensitive patients that the needle shield inside the removable cap of the CIMZIA prefilled syringe contains a derivative of natural rubber latex [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

Pregnancy

Advise patients that there is a pregnancy registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to CIMZIA during pregnancy, patients can call 1-877-311-8972 [see Use in Specific Populations 8.1].

Preparation and Administration of CIMZIA Using the Prefilled Syringe

Instruct patients and caregivers on how to inject the Prefilled Syringe. Complete instructions are provided in the Instructions for Use packaged in each CIMZIA Prefilled Syringe kit.

• If refrigerated, remove the prefilled syringe from the carton and let it warm to room temperature.
• Inspect the liquid in the prefilled syringe. It should be clear to opalescent, and colorless to yellow and free from particulates. Discard the syringe if cloudy, discolored or contains particulates.
• Suitable sites for injection include the thigh or abdomen. Inject at least 1 inch from the previous site.
• Do not inject into areas where the skin is tender, bruised, red or hard, or where there are scars or stretch marks.

Instruct patients and caregivers in proper syringe and needle disposal technique.

• To avoid needle-stick injury, do not to place the needle cap back on the syringe or otherwise recap the needle.
• Properly dispose of needles and syringes in a puncture-proof container.
• Do not reuse the injection materials.