SIMPONI 50mg/0.5ml SOLUTION FOR INJECTION IN A PRE-FILLED SYRINGE (GOLIMUMAB)
GOLIMUMAB
What it does
Golimumab is a medication that helps reduce inflammation in the body.
Commonly used for: rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, ulcerative colitis
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:37:39 · updated 2026-10-20 04:00:10
Drug Interactions
3Pharmacodynamic Warnings
Golimumab appears in TABLE 15: Drugs that cause myelosuppression
Severe (3)
Golimumab - increases risk of generalised infection (possibly life-threatening)
Abatacept is predicted to increase the risk of generalised infection (possibly life-threatening) when given with monoclonal antibodies (golimumab). Avoid. Theoretical Abemaciclib
Golimumab - increases risk of generalised infection (possibly life-threatening)
Anakinra is predicted to increase the risk of generalised infection (possibly life-threatening) when given with monoclonal antibodies (golimumab). Avoid. Theoretical Andexanet alfa.
Golimumab - increases risk of immunosuppression
Filgotinib is predicted to increase the risk of immunosuppression when given with monoclonal antibodies (adalimumab, certolizumab pegol, golimumab, infliximab, rituximab, sarilumab, secukinumab, tocil
Data from BNF 85 (British National Formulary). This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Matched via: exact
About this medicine
Golimumab is a medication that helps reduce inflammation in the body.
What it treats
- rheumatoid arthritis
- ankylosing spondylitis
- ulcerative colitis
How it works
It works by blocking a substance in the body that causes inflammation.
Who it's for
This medication is for adults who have certain autoimmune conditions.
Cautions
- • Be cautious if you are taking other medications that affect blood cell production.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: Golimumab
BNF-referencedGolimumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody that inhibits tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), a cytokine involved in systemic inflammation. It is used primarily in the treatment of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis. By blocking TNF-alpha, Golimumab reduces inflammation and alters the immune response, leading to improvement in symptoms and slowing disease progression.
Indications
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn's disease
Dosage
Children: Golimumab is not routinely used in the pediatric population for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. For specific pediatric dosing guidelines, refer to the BNF for Children.
Adults: For adults, the initial dose of Golimumab is typically 50 mg administered subcutaneously, followed by maintenance doses of 50 mg every 4 weeks. Refer to the BNF for specific dosing adjustments based on individual patient circumstances and treatment response.
Mechanism of action
Golimumab binds specifically to TNF-alpha, preventing it from interacting with its receptors on the cell surface. This action inhibits the downstream signaling pathways that lead to inflammation and immune system activation, thereby reducing the inflammatory response associated with various autoimmune conditions.
Pharmacodynamics
Golimumab’s pharmacodynamic effects are primarily related to its ability to inhibit TNF-alpha. This results in decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, reduced infiltration of inflammatory cells into affected tissues, and overall reduction in inflammation. Clinically, this translates to improved symptoms and physical function in patients with autoimmune diseases.
Pharmacokinetics
Golimumab exhibits linear pharmacokinetics with a half-life of approximately 14 days. It is administered via subcutaneous injection, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 5 to 10 days post-injection. The drug is predominantly eliminated through the reticuloendothelial system, and its clearance can be affected by factors such as body weight and presence of anti-drug antibodies.
Contra-indications
- Active tuberculosis
- Predisposition to infections
- Demyelinating disorders
- History of malignancy
- Hepatitis B virus infection
Adverse effects
- Infections (including severe infections)
- Headache
- Cystitis
- Skin reactions
- Skin ulcers
- Neutropenia
- Thrombocytopenia
- Bone marrow disorders
- Demyelination
- Lupus-like syndromes
- Sepsis
- Fever
Interactions
- Severe interaction with abatacept (increases risk of generalised infection)
- Severe interaction with anakinra (increases risk of generalised infection)
- Severe interaction with filgotinib (increases risk of immunosuppression)
Precautions
- Monitor for signs of infection
- Screen for tuberculosis before initiation
- Discontinue if new serious infection develops
- Assess for heart failure symptoms
- Ensure immunizations are current before starting therapy
Pregnancy
Use with caution; potential risk in human studies is unclear.
Breast-feeding
Limited data; should be used with caution.
Storage
Store below 25°C, do not freeze. Protect from light.
Formulations
- Solution for injection, 50 mg per 1 ml pre-filled syringe
- Solution for injection, 50 mg per 1 ml pre-filled pen
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.