As is the case with many medications that treat rheumatoid arthritis, it may also help with other conditions, many of them being other autoimmune disorders. Some of the other types of diseases that can be treated with Simponi include alkalizing spondylitis, ulcerative colitis and psoriatic arthritis. The medication is sometimes used on its own but it may also be used along with methotrexate, depending upon the issue that is being treated.

Your doctor will want you to watch carefully for any side effects that you may experience during the time that you are using this or other medications. Since this drug has a suppressing effect on the immune system it may make it more likely for you to get infections and sometimes, those infections can be serious or fatal. If you are using this drug and experience problems such as chills, fever, tiredness, skin sores, coughing, aching or diarrhea, be sure to discuss it with your doctor right away. If you are using other medications but also have a suppressing effect on the immune system the possibility for these issues is greater.

Discuss any other medications you are using with Dr. Lavery before you begin taking this drug. You should also discuss any health problems you're having outside of the condition that is being treated, including those that would affect your immune system such as HIV or hepatitis B. By discussing these factors with your doctor in advance of using the drug, you are less likely to experience problems and can experience more benefits from using it.