Biologic Half-Lives — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

Correct answer: D — Golimumab

Golimumab is correct. For rheumatoid arthritis it is normally administered subcutaneously every 4 weeks, and its UK SmPC reports an estimated terminal half-life of approximately 12 ± 3 days. Adalimumab and certolizumab pegol both have half-lives of approximately 14 days, so asking simply which anti-TNF has the longest half-life would not produce a secure single best answer. Infliximab has a median terminal half-life of approximately 8–9.5 days, although its infusion interval may be considerably longer than its pharmacokinetic half-life. Etanercept has the shortest half-life among these options, at approximately 70 hours. Half-life and routine dosing interval are distinct concepts and should not be conflated when planning perioperative treatment interruption.

Reference: Simponi 50 mg solution for injection in pre-filled pen, Summary of Product Characteristics, sections 4.2 and 5.2, revised 2 July 2026. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/8122/smpc