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Golimumab Prefilled Syringe (GOLIMUMAB - SUBCUTANEOUS INJECTION)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • arthritis
  • inflammatory bowel disease

Brand Name(s): Simponi

Generic Name: Golimumab

Instructions

This medicine is used by injecting it into the skin. Please ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for the correct places on your body where this medicine can be injected.

Carefully follow the instructions for preparing this medicine before injection.

The liquid should be clear or light yellow.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Do not shake the medicine before using.

Store new medicine in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. Do not allow them to freeze.

You may store this medicine at room temperature for up to 30 days. Do not put back in refrigerator.

Protect medicine from light.

Take the medicine out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before use to warm to room temperature.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

Avoid injecting the medicine within 2 inches around the navel.

Do not inject into skin that is red, swollen or itchy.

Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to latex.

If you miss a dose, use as soon as you remember. Return to the recommended amount of time between doses. Do not use medicine more frequently to catch up.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Your doctor should check you for tuberculosis (TB) before you start this medicine and while you are using it. Tell your doctor if you are being treated for TB or any other infection.

Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.

This medicine may increase the risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • pain, redness, swelling near injection

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • bleeding or bruising
  • chest pain
  • constipation
  • cough that does not go away
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • fever or chills
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • muscle weakness
  • joint or muscle pain
  • butterfly-shaped rash on nose and cheeks
  • seizures
  • shortness of breath
  • sweating at night
  • unsteadiness while walking
  • sudden or unexplained weight gain

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.