Adalimumab
Drug Name(s): Humira. Biosimilars: Abrilada, Amjevita, Cyltezo, Hadlima, Hulio, Hyrimoz, Idacio, Yuflyma, Yusimry
Class: Biologics
Type: TNF-α inhibitor
Used to treat ankylosing spondylitis (AS), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Dosage
Form(s): pre-filled syringe, auto-injector
40 mg injection every other week for adults who are also taking methotrexate. Patients with RA who are not taking methotrexate may benefit from a dosage increase to 40 mg weekly.
Dosages for children: The dosages listed above are those typically prescribed for adults aged 18-65. Dosages for children can vary. Talk to your child's doctor about the appropriate dosage for your child.
Special Instructions
Keep drug refrigerated. Do not freeze. Inject into thigh, abdomen or upper arm. Rotate injection sites. Do not inject where skin is tender, bruised, red or hard.
Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment.
The anti-inflammatory effect of anti-TNF drugs can diminish over time because some people form antibodies against the drug; using methotrexate with the biologic may make this less likely.
Potential Side Effects
Bruising, pain or redness at the injection site; headache; infections; rash
Be Aware
Adalimumab may worsen pre-existing heart failure or multiple sclerosis.
All biologics suppress the immune system and may increase your risk of infections. Tell your doctor if you have an active infection. Do not start treatment if you have a serious or recurrent infection (such as pneumonia). You should be tested for tuberculosis before starting this medication. Do not get a live vaccine when taking biologics.
Some evidence shows that TNF inhibitors may increase the risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma and skin cancer. Use sun protection and check your skin regularly while taking any of these drugs. TNF inhibitors should be avoided or used with caution in people with congestive heart failure. Rare reports of lupus have been linked to the use of TNF inhibitors. Lupus symptoms may go away when the medication is stopped.
