NICE has published a technology appraisal (TA 186) recommending the use of certolizumab pegol as a possible treatment for people with rheumatoid arthritis who:

• have already tried methotrexate and another disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD), usually for at least 6 months, and
• have severe 'active' rheumatoid arthritis, as assessed by a rheumatologist on two separate occasions.

People who are treated with certolizumab pegol should normally also be given methotrexate. However, if methotrexate is not tolerated, they may be given certolizumab pegol monotherapy.

According to the guidance, the manufacturer will provide the first 12 weeks of certolizumab pegol (10 pre-loaded 200-mg syringes) free of charge to all patients starting treatment.