Understanding Simponi and Its Mechanism
Simponi (golimumab) is a biologic medication belonging to the TNF-alpha inhibitor class, used to treat inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and ulcerative colitis. By blocking TNF-alpha, Simponi helps reduce inflammation. However, this action can also lead to side effects, including gastrointestinal issues.
Can Simponi cause stomach pain? Common versus severe symptoms
Yes, stomach pain is a possible side effect of Simponi, varying in intensity. Patients should be aware of different types of abdominal discomfort and when they might indicate a more serious problem.
Common Gastrointestinal Side Effects (affecting 1% to 10% of patients):
- Constipation
- Dyspepsia (indigestion)
- Gastrointestinal and abdominal pain
- Nausea
Rare or Serious Gastrointestinal Side Effects:
- Severe stomach pain, which can indicate serious issues like liver damage or infection.
- Liver problems, potentially causing upper right-sided stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and jaundice.
- Serious infections, which may present with diarrhea and stomach pain, especially with fever and chills.
- Rare instances of gastritis or colitis.
Is it the drug or the disease?
Distinguishing between Simponi side effects and symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) like ulcerative colitis can be difficult. UC itself causes significant stomach pain and other GI issues. If a patient with UC on Simponi experiences new or worsening stomach pain, a doctor must determine if it's due to a disease flare-up, a new infection related to immune suppression, a direct drug side effect, or other complications.
When to contact a healthcare provider
While mild GI discomfort may be manageable, certain symptoms require immediate medical attention. Be vigilant for signs of more serious complications.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Severe or persistent stomach pain or cramps.
- Fever, chills, or sweats.
- Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
- Signs of liver damage like jaundice, dark urine, or pale stools.
- Changes in bowel habits, including persistent or bloody diarrhea.
- Injection site infection with systemic symptoms like fever and stomach pain.
Comparison of Gastrointestinal Side Effects
| Side Effect | Simponi (golimumab) | Infliximab | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abdominal Pain | Common (1-10%) | Common | Evaluate to distinguish from disease |
| Nausea | Common (1-10%) | Common | Can be a sign of a serious issue |
| Diarrhea | Uncommon | Common | May indicate infection with TNF blockers |
| Constipation | Common (1-10%) | Not consistently reported as a primary side effect | A known common side effect |
| Severe Abdominal Pain | Rare | Rare | Potential indicator of liver problems or infection |
Management and prevention
For mild GI side effects, your doctor might recommend strategies like taking Simponi with food or adjusting your diet. Do not use over-the-counter medications without consulting your doctor. Patients with a history of liver disease or other GI conditions will likely be monitored more closely. Screening for hepatitis B is standard before starting TNF inhibitors due to the risk of reactivation.
Conclusion
Can Simponi cause stomach pain? Yes, it is a recognized side effect that can range from common, mild discomfort to rare, severe issues. While mild symptoms may be manageable, vigilance for serious signs like severe pain, liver damage indicators, or infection symptoms is crucial. Close communication with a healthcare provider is vital for safe and effective Simponi use, especially for those with inflammatory conditions where distinguishing between disease activity and medication side effects can be challenging. https://www.janssenlabels.com/package-insert/product-patient-information/SIMPONI-medication-guide.pdf
