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Drug interactions

Certolizumab pegol + Natalizumab

Severity: Major

Certolizumab pegol and Natalizumab: major interaction.

Last updated

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

Natalizumab with TNF blockers increases the risk of infection, and natalizumab labeling cautions against use with immunosuppressants and TNF inhibitors. Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy risk is a particular concern.

What this interaction means in plain words

Certolizumab pegol and Natalizumab 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.

Certolizumab pegol belongs to Musculoskeletal; Natalizumab belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive immunosuppression from TNF-alpha blockade and alpha4-integrin inhibition limiting leukocyte trafficking.

What to do

Avoid concurrent use; separate therapies by appropriate washout. Monitor for infection and new neurological symptoms.

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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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Certolizumab pegol with Natalizumab?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Certolizumab pegol and Natalizumab 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. Natalizumab with TNF blockers increases the risk of infection, and natalizumab labeling cautions against use with immunosuppressants and TNF inhibitors. Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy risk is a particular concern.

How serious is the interaction between Certolizumab pegol and Natalizumab?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid concurrent use; separate therapies by appropriate washout. Monitor for infection and new neurological symptoms.

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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