Cimzia (certolizumab) is a prescription drug that’s used to treat Crohn’s disease, certain types of arthritis, and other conditions. It’s not known whether it’s safe to receive Cimzia injections while pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you can become pregnant, it’s important to consider whether Cimzia is a safe option for you.

It’s not known whether Cimzia is safe to use during pregnancy. Before receiving this drug, let your doctor know if you’re pregnant or considering pregnancy. Your doctor can recommend appropriate treatment options for your condition.

If you do receive Cimzia while pregnant, consider enrolling in the drug’s pregnancy registry. This registry collects information on the effects of Cimzia when used during pregnancy. This helps researchers to better understand the drug’s effects if used during pregnancy. To learn more or sign up, call 866-626-6847 or visit the registry’s website.

Pregnancy and rheumatoid arthritis or Crohn’s disease

According to published data, having rheumatoid arthritis or Crohn’s disease that’s not well managed during pregnancy could raise the risk of:

  • pregnancy loss
  • premature birth
  • low birth weight

Because of this, you and your doctor should discuss the risks and benefits of receiving Cimzia while pregnant versus not treating your condition during pregnancy.

If you’re currently breastfeeding or planning to do so, it’s important to understand the effects that Cimzia could have on you or your child.

It’s not known whether it’s safe to receive Cimzia while breastfeeding. Small amounts of Cimzia may pass into breast milk. But in studies, no serious side effects were reported in children breastfed by people receiving Cimzia. Talk with your doctor about the safety of breastfeeding during Cimzia treatment.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.