Consumer Information

Adalimumab

Brand names: Humira

Why is Adalimumab prescribed?

Humira is a medicine that is used in people with moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or with psoriatic arthritis (PsA). RA is an inflammatory disease of the joints, and PsA is an inflammatory disease of the joints and skin.

Most important fact about Adalimumab

There is a risk of tuberculosis infection or fungal infection with the use of Humira. You should be tested and, if positive, treated for tuberculosis before beginning treatment with Humira.

How should you take Adalimumab?

Your doctor will administer your first injection of Humira in your front thigh or abdomen. If you would like to self-administer, or have a caregiver administer your injection, have the doctor explain the proper injection and discarding technique.

If you miss a dose...
If you forget to take Humira when you are supposed to, inject the next dose right away. Then, take your next dose when your next scheduled dose is due.

Storage instructions...
Store in a refrigerator, away from light. Do not freeze Humira.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Adalimumab.

Side effects may include:
Reaction at site of injection (bruising, itching, rash, redness, swelling)

Usually, the rash will go away within a few days. If the skin around the area where you injected Humira still hurts or is swollen, try using a towel soaked with cold water on the injection site. If you have pain, redness or swelling around the injection site that doesn't go away within a few days or gets worse, call your doctor right away.

Why should Adalimumab not be prescribed?

Do not begin treatment with Humira if you have an allergy to any of its ingredients. The needle cover on the prefilled syringe contains dry natural rubber, so tell your doctor if you have any allergies to rubber or latex.

Special warnings about Adalimumab

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Humira.

Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of infection (including an open cut or sore), or an infection that is in your whole body (such as the flu); if you have ever had tuberculosis or have been in close contact with someone who has had it; or if you experience any numbness or tingling or have ever had a disease that affects your nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis.

Tell your doctor if you are scheduled to have surgery or a vaccination.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Adalimumab

If Humira is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Humira with the RA drug anakinra.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Humira during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Talk with your doctor before taking Adalimumab if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.