WARNING

Golimumab injection is a medication used to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and ulcerative colitis. Like any medication, it carries potential risks, which may include:

• Infections: Golimumab can suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Serious infections may occur, including tuberculosis, fungal infections, bacterial infections, and reactivation of hepatitis B virus.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to golimumab, which can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Golimumab can potentially lead to the development of autoimmune disorders, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. This can result in symptoms affecting various organs and systems.
• Injection Site Reactions: Common side effects of golimumab injections include reactions at the injection site, such as redness, itching, pain, or swelling. These reactions are usually mild and temporary.
• Heart Failure: Golimumab may increase the risk of heart failure, particularly in individuals with a history of heart disease or other cardiovascular risk factors.
• Liver Problems: Golimumab can affect liver function, leading to abnormalities in liver enzymes. In rare cases, severe liver injury may occur.
• Blood Disorders: Golimumab may cause changes in blood cell counts, including reductions in white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets, which can increase the risk of infections, anemia, and bleeding.
• Neurological Disorders: Rarely, golimumab may be associated with neurological side effects, such as demyelinating disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis) or peripheral neuropathy.

It’s essential for individuals considering golimumab treatment to discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider. They should also report any unusual symptoms or side effects experienced during treatment promptly.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Golimumab injection is prescribed for the treatment of various autoimmune diseases, particularly rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and ulcerative colitis. Golimumab belongs to a class of medications called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers. It works by targeting and blocking the action of TNF-alpha, a protein produced by the immune system that plays a role in causing inflammation.

Here’s a brief overview of the conditions Golimumab is commonly prescribed for:

• Rheumatoid arthritis: Golimumab helps reduce the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. It also helps slow down the progression of joint damage.
• Psoriatic arthritis: This medication is used to treat psoriatic arthritis, a type of arthritis that occurs in some people with the skin condition psoriasis. Golimumab helps reduce joint inflammation and damage associated with psoriatic arthritis.
• Ankylosing spondylitis: Golimumab is used to treat ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine. It helps reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the spine and other joints.
• Ulcerative colitis: Golimumab is also prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. It helps reduce inflammation in the colon and improve symptoms such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and abdominal pain.

It’s important to note that Golimumab is usually prescribed when other medications have not provided sufficient relief or have caused intolerable side effects. As with any medication, it’s essential to use Golimumab under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional.

How should this medicine be used?

Golimumab injection is typically administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or nurse. It is given as a subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected under the skin, usually in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm.

Here are some general guidelines for using Golimumab injection:

• Dosage: The dosage of Golimumab can vary depending on the condition being treated and individual patient factors. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage for you.
• Administration: Golimumab injection comes in pre-filled syringes or auto-injectors. Your healthcare provider will show you how to properly administer the injection. Make sure you understand the instructions before attempting to self-administer the medication.
• Injection Sites: Rotate the injection site with each dose to reduce the risk of injection site reactions. Common injection sites include the thigh, abdomen (except for the area around the navel), or upper arm.
• Preparation: If you’re using a pre-filled syringe, remove it from the refrigerator and allow it to reach room temperature before injecting. Do not shake the syringe. If you’re using an auto-injector, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for preparation.
• Injection Technique: Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it dry. Pinch the skin at the injection site and insert the needle at a 45 to 90-degree angle. Inject the medication slowly and steadily.
• Disposal: Dispose of used syringes or auto-injectors in a puncture-resistant container according to local regulations. Do not reuse needles or syringes.
• Frequency: Golimumab is typically administered once every two to four weeks, depending on the condition being treated and your doctor’s recommendations. Stick to the prescribed dosing schedule.
• Monitoring: Your doctor will monitor your response to Golimumab treatment and may adjust the dosage as needed. Keep all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and ask any questions you may have about using Golimumab injection. If you’re unsure about any aspect of administration, don’t hesitate to seek clarification from your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

Golimumab injection may also be used for other off-label purposes, although these uses should be determined and prescribed by a healthcare provider. Off-label uses may include certain inflammatory conditions or diseases not explicitly approved by regulatory agencies but where golimumab has shown efficacy in clinical studies.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be followed when using golimumab injection:

• Infections: Golimumab can increase the risk of infections, including serious or opportunistic infections. Patients should be monitored for signs of infection during treatment. They should also inform their healthcare provider if they have a history of recurrent infections or currently have an infection.
• Tuberculosis Screening: Prior to starting golimumab treatment, patients should be screened for latent tuberculosis (TB) infection with a tuberculin skin test or blood test. Treatment for latent TB infection may be necessary before initiating golimumab therapy to reduce the risk of TB reactivation.
• Immunizations: Live vaccines should generally be avoided during golimumab treatment due to the increased risk of infection. Patients should consult their healthcare provider regarding appropriate immunization schedules, including receiving recommended vaccines before starting golimumab therapy.
• Malignancies: There may be an increased risk of certain types of cancers, including lymphoma and skin cancers, with the use of golimumab. Patients should undergo regular monitoring for signs and symptoms of malignancies during treatment.
• Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation: Patients with a history of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection should be closely monitored for signs of HBV reactivation during golimumab therapy. HBV reactivation can lead to severe liver problems, including fulminant hepatitis, liver failure, and death.
• Heart Failure: Golimumab may exacerbate pre-existing heart failure or lead to new-onset heart failure. Patients with heart failure should be closely monitored during treatment, and golimumab should be used with caution in individuals with a history of heart disease.
• Neurological Disorders: Golimumab may be associated with neurological side effects, including demyelinating disorders and peripheral neuropathy. Patients experiencing new or worsening neurological symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of golimumab during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should discuss the risks and benefits of golimumab therapy with their healthcare provider.

Patients should discuss any pre-existing medical conditions, medications (including over-the-counter and herbal supplements), and allergies with their healthcare provider before starting golimumab therapy. It’s essential to adhere to all recommendations and precautions provided by the healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment with golimumab.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with golimumab injection. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is generally recommended to support overall health and well-being. If you have any dietary concerns or specific dietary requirements, discuss them with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of golimumab injection, administer it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Golimumab injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. Common side effects may include:

• Injection site reactions: These can include redness, itching, pain, or swelling at the injection site. These reactions are usually mild and transient.
• Upper respiratory tract infections: Symptoms may include the common cold, sinusitis, or sore throat.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches may occur.
• Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea or upset stomach.
• Rash or skin reactions: Skin rash, itching, or dermatitis may occur.
• Urinary tract infections: Symptoms may include pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, or urgency to urinate.
• Fatigue: Some patients may experience fatigue or tiredness.
• Dizziness: Mild dizziness may occur in some individuals.
• Abdominal pain: Some patients may experience abdominal discomfort or pain.
• Elevated liver enzymes: Golimumab may cause an increase in liver enzyme levels in some patients.

Less common but more serious side effects may include:

• Serious infections: Golimumab can increase the risk of serious infections, including bacterial, viral, fungal, or opportunistic infections. Symptoms may include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, or unusual tiredness.
• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to golimumab, which can be severe. Symptoms may include rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Autoimmune disorders: Golimumab may increase the risk of autoimmune disorders, where the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. This can lead to symptoms affecting various organs and systems.
• Heart failure exacerbation: Golimumab may exacerbate pre-existing heart failure or lead to new-onset heart failure.
• Neurological disorders: Rarely, golimumab may be associated with neurological side effects, such as demyelinating disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis) or peripheral neuropathy.

It’s important to report any side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary. Additionally, seek immediate medical attention if you experience any severe or concerning symptoms while taking golimumab injection.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Golimumab Injection:

• Storage: Store golimumab injection in the refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Keep the medication in its original carton to protect it from light. If needed, golimumab injection can be kept at room temperature (up to 25°C or 77°F) for up to 30 days. Once removed from the refrigerator, do not put it back. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of used syringes and needles in a puncture-resistant container. Do not reuse needles or syringes. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about the proper disposal methods for golimumab injection.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects after using golimumab injection, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Overdose symptoms may include severe allergic reactions, worsening of existing conditions, or other serious adverse effects. You can also contact your local poison control center for assistance.

What other information should I know?

• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will monitor your response to golimumab treatment regularly. This may involve physical examinations, laboratory tests, and imaging studies to assess your condition and monitor for any potential side effects.
• Medical Alert: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are receiving golimumab injection, especially if you are scheduled for surgery or medical procedures.
• Patient Assistance Programs: Some manufacturers offer patient assistance programs to help individuals afford their medication. If you have difficulty paying for golimumab injection, inquire with your healthcare provider or the medication manufacturer about available assistance programs.
• Travel: If you need to travel with golimumab injection, ensure proper storage and transportation to maintain its effectiveness. Plan ahead to have an adequate supply of medication for the duration of your trip.
• Follow-up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
• Support: If you have any questions or concerns about golimumab injection or your treatment plan, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist. They can provide information and support to help you manage your condition effectively.