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Drug interactions

Anakinra + Certolizumab pegol

Severity: Major

Anakinra and Certolizumab pegol: major interaction.

Last updated Sources: US FDA label

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Anakinra combined with TNF blockers has been associated with more serious infections and neutropenia without added benefit. Labeling recommends against the combination.

What this interaction means in plain words

Anakinra and Certolizumab pegol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Anakinra belongs to Musculoskeletal; Certolizumab pegol belongs to Musculoskeletal.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive immunosuppression from TNF-alpha and IL-1 receptor blockade.

What to do

Do not combine; use one biologic at a time. If switching, monitor for infection and neutrophil count.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Anakinra with Certolizumab pegol?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Anakinra and Certolizumab pegol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Anakinra combined with TNF blockers has been associated with more serious infections and neutropenia without added benefit. Labeling recommends against the combination.

How serious is the interaction between Anakinra and Certolizumab pegol?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Do not combine; use one biologic at a time. If switching, monitor for infection and neutrophil count.

What other medicines interact with Certolizumab pegol?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Certolizumab pegol with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Bcg intravesical live, Bcg vaccine live. The full list is on the Certolizumab pegol page.

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