Golimumab vaccine: Everything you need to know

Do you have a serious condition like arthritis or ulcerative colitis? Then you know how much it can disrupt your daily life. Golimumab is a special, modern drug that doctors use to control these conditions. Let's talk about it today.

What is Golimumab?

Simply put, Golimumab is a vaccine that controls the activity of your body's immune system. Normally, our immune system's job is to protect us by fighting off disease-causing germs. But sometimes, this system becomes overactive and mistakenly starts attacking our own good cells. We call these conditions autoimmune conditions. Arthritis and ulcerative colitis are two such diseases. Golimumab works by calming down the overactive immune system. Medically speaking, it belongs to a class of drugs called `TNF inhibitors`. That is, it temporarily blocks a protein (TNF) in our body that causes pain and swelling. It is also a type of `monoclonal antibody`. That is, a special protein designed in the laboratory to act only on a specific target. Like a missile that hits its target.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Since this is a very powerful medicine, your doctor needs to have a complete picture of your health. So, if you have any of the following, tell your doctor without hiding anything .

How do you use this medicine?

Golimumab can be given in two ways. 1. Into a vein: This is usually given in a hospital or clinic by a healthcare professional through a saline solution. 2. Under the skin: Sometimes this vaccine is made so that you can give it to yourself at home. If this is the case, your doctor or nurse will show you exactly how to do it. Also, you will receive a special leaflet (`MedGuide`) with details about this medicine. Read it carefully every time. It will explain a lot about the medicine to you.

Do you give this to small children?

Yes, in some special cases, this medicine is prescribed for children as young as 2 years old. But that decision is made by a pediatrician.

What do I do if I miss a medication appointment?

• If you are being given medication at the hospital: If you cannot go on the scheduled day, call the hospital or clinic immediately and let them know. They will give you another day.
• If you are taking your medicine at home: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose. If you are unsure, call your doctor for advice.

What happens if you take too much medicine?

If you think you've taken too much medication, don't panic and take action immediately.

What other medications should not be used with this medicine?

Golimumab is a drug that affects the immune system, so it can be dangerous to take it with other drugs that do the same. In addition, some other medications may interact with this medicine.

• Cyclosporine
• Theophylline
• Warfarin (a blood thinner)
• Other vaccines

This list is not complete. Therefore, it is essential to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, including vitamins, traditional medicines, and supplements.

What should I be careful about when taking the medicine?

• Regular medical check-ups : Go to clinics at the scheduled times as prescribed by your doctor and check your condition.
• TB Test: You will be tested for tuberculosis before starting this medicine. If the test shows that you have tuberculosis germs in your body, you will need to start and finish the full course of tuberculosis medicine before starting golimumab.
• Protection from infections : This medicine lowers your immunity a little, so you are more likely to get sick. Therefore, if you have symptoms like fever, cold , cough, etc., do not self-medicate and tell your doctor. Try to stay away from people who are sick.
• Cancer risk : There may be a very small increase in the risk of developing some types of cancer when taking this medication. Before you panic, talk openly with your doctor about this and understand your personal risk.

What side effects might I experience?

Like all medicines, golimumab can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

How to store the medicine? (For those using at home)

If you are using the vaccine at home, it is very important to store it correctly.

• Refrigeration (best method): Store in the normal part of the refrigerator (between 2-8 degrees Celsius). Never store in the freezer. Do not use the medicine if it freezes.
• Keeping at room temperature:If necessary, the medicine can be kept at room temperature (below 25 degrees Celsius) for up to 30 days. However, once the medicine has been taken out of the refrigerator, do not put it back in the refrigerator. If it is not used within 30 days, remove it.
• Other points: Keep the medicine in its original packaging, away from light. Do not shake the medicine bottle or syringe before use.

Ask your doctor how to safely dispose of expired or no longer needed medications. Golimumab, arthritis, ulcerative colitis, autoimmune, TNF inhibitor, vaccine, side effects