Certolizumab pegol for treating axial spondyloarthritis.

INTRODUCTION: Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the spine and sacroiliac (SI) joints. The spectrum of axSpA includes ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and non-radiographic axSpA (nr-axSpA). Evidence has supported the use of TNF alpha inhibitors (TNFi) in treating these diseases, with good efficacy and tolerable safety profiles. Certolizumab pegol (CZP) is an anti-TNF alpha (TNFa) agent with data to support its use in both AS and nr-axSpA.

AREAS COVERED: The pharmacologic properties of CZP were reviewed. Data regarding the use and efficacy of CZP in axSpA were reviewed. Quality of life outcomes and safety profiles of CZP in axSpA patients were discussed as well.

EXPERT OPINION: While there are several biologics with evidence for improved outcomes in AS, there is less evidence for biologic medications that have good efficacy in nr-axSpA. CZP has good evidence of improved outcomes in terms of clinical efficacy, patient reported outcomes and imaging outcomes in both conditions, with a tolerable safety profile.