WARNING

Humira is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors. It is commonly used to treat autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. While Humira can be effective in managing these conditions, it does carry certain risks and potential side effects. Here are some important points to consider:

• Infections: TNF inhibitors like Humira can suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. This includes serious bacterial, viral, fungal, and opportunistic infections. Before starting Humira, it is crucial to discuss your medical history and any ongoing infections with your doctor.
• Reactivation of latent infections: If you have a history of tuberculosis (TB) or hepatitis B, Humira can reactivate these infections. It is essential to inform your doctor about any previous infections or exposure to TB or hepatitis B.
• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Humira, including rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction.
• Injection site reactions: Common side effects of Humira include redness, swelling, itching, or pain at the injection site. These reactions are usually mild and resolve on their own.
• Blood disorders: In rare cases, Humira can affect blood cells and lead to anemia, leukopenia (low white blood cell count), or thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). Regular monitoring of blood counts is important during treatment.
• Increased risk of cancer: Some studies have suggested an increased risk of certain types of cancers, such as lymphoma and skin cancer, in patients treated with TNF inhibitors like Humira. However, the overall risk appears to be low.
• Other potential side effects: Humira can cause various other side effects, including headache, nausea, abdominal pain, respiratory infections, elevated liver enzymes, and neurological symptoms.

It is important to note that the risks and side effects can vary from person to person. Your doctor will assess your individual circumstances and weigh the potential benefits against the risks before prescribing Humira or any other medication. They will closely monitor your health and provide guidance throughout your treatment.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Humira (adalimumab) is a prescription medication that is primarily prescribed to treat certain autoimmune conditions. It belongs to a class of drugs called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers.

Humira is commonly prescribed for the following conditions:

• Rheumatoid arthritis: It is used to reduce signs and symptoms of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, including joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
• Psoriatic arthritis: Humira helps reduce the signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, which involves joint inflammation and skin symptoms such as psoriasis.
• Ankylosing spondylitis: It is prescribed to treat ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine and causes pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
• Crohn’s disease: Humira is used to reduce signs and symptoms and induce and maintain clinical remission in patients with moderate to severe Crohn’s disease, an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the digestive tract.
• Ulcerative colitis: It is prescribed to induce and maintain clinical remission in patients with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis, another type of inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon and rectum.
• Plaque psoriasis: Humira helps reduce the signs and symptoms of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterized by thick, red, scaly patches.

It’s important to note that Humira should be used under the supervision and guidance of a healthcare professional, as it can have potential side effects and requires regular monitoring. The decision to prescribe Humira and the appropriate dosage depends on the specific condition, disease severity, and individual patient factors.

How should this medicine be used?

Humira (adalimumab) is a medication that is used to treat various autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. It is important to note that I am an AI language model and not a healthcare professional, so it’s always best to consult your doctor or healthcare provider for specific instructions on how to use Humira. However, I can provide you with some general information.

Humira is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected under the skin. The medication comes in prefilled syringes or pens, and the injections can be self-administered at home or given by a healthcare professional. Here are some general guidelines for using Humira:

• Preparation: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Remove the Humira syringe or pen from the refrigerator and allow it to reach room temperature for about 15 to 30 minutes. Do not heat the medication or use a microwave to warm it.
• Injection site: The usual injection sites are the front of the thighs or the lower abdomen (avoiding the area around the navel). If a healthcare professional has advised you to inject in other areas, follow their instructions. Choose a different injection site each time you use Humira to reduce the risk of injection site reactions.
• Injection process: Remove the cap from the syringe or pen, and clean the chosen injection site with an alcohol swab. Pinch a fold of skin at the cleaned site and insert the needle at a 45-degree angle (or as directed by your healthcare provider). Slowly push the plunger down to inject the medication. If you are using a pen, follow the specific instructions provided with the pen.
• Disposal: After injection, safely dispose of the syringe or pen according to local regulations or your healthcare provider’s instructions.

It’s important to follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the manufacturer of Humira. They will give you detailed information on the dosage, frequency of administration, and any additional precautions or recommendations.

Remember, this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for personalized guidance on how to use Humira or any other medication.

Other uses for this medicine

Humira (adalimumab) is a medication primarily used to treat various autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. However, it’s important to note that I am an AI language model and not a healthcare professional, so it’s always best to consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific medical advice.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Humira, here are some general guidelines to consider:

• Medical History: Inform your doctor about your complete medical history, including any infections, vaccinations, previous or current medical conditions, and medications you are taking. This will help your doctor assess if Humira is suitable for you.
• Infections: Humira can increase the risk of infections, so it’s important to notify your doctor if you have any signs of an infection, such as fever, cough, or flu-like symptoms. Avoid starting Humira if you have an active infection.
• Vaccinations: Before starting Humira, make sure your vaccinations are up to date, as live vaccines are generally not recommended while on Humira. Discuss with your doctor about any necessary vaccinations.
• Tuberculosis (TB): Prior to initiating Humira, your doctor may perform a TB screening, including a skin test and/or chest X-ray. If you have a history of TB or have been in close contact with someone who has TB, it’s important to inform your doctor.
• Other Precautions: Some additional precautions while using Humira may include regular monitoring of blood counts and liver function, avoiding close contact with individuals who have contagious diseases, and promptly reporting any unusual symptoms or side effects to your healthcare provider.

It’s crucial to emphasize that these precautions are general guidelines, and your doctor will provide you with specific instructions based on your individual circumstances. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice regarding the use of Humira or any other medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions for Humira (generic name: adalimumab). However, it’s generally recommended to follow a healthy and balanced diet as part of your overall well-being. Eating a nutritious diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is beneficial for your overall health.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Humira, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider for guidance. They will advise you on the best course of action based on your specific treatment plan. It’s generally not recommended to take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Humira (adalimumab) is a medication used to treat various autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. While Humira can be effective in managing these conditions, like any medication, it can also cause side effects. Some potential side effects of Humira include:

• Injection site reactions: This can include redness, swelling, itching, bruising, or pain at the site of injection.
• Upper respiratory infections: Humira can increase the risk of developing infections such as colds, sinusitis, and sore throat.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches while taking Humira.
• Rash: Skin reactions, including rashes and dermatitis, have been reported.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms: Humira can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
• Increased risk of infections: There is an increased risk of developing serious infections while taking Humira. These can include bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any signs of infection, such as fever, persistent cough, or flu-like symptoms.
• Blood disorders: In rare cases, Humira may affect blood cells, leading to conditions such as anemia or low white blood cell count.
• Liver problems: Humira may cause liver function abnormalities in some individuals.
• Neurological symptoms: Rarely, Humira has been associated with neurological side effects, including multiple sclerosis-like symptoms, seizures, or optic neuritis.
• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Humira, characterized by hives, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and the likelihood and severity of side effects can vary from person to person. It’s recommended to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting or while taking Humira.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage of Humira:

• Refrigeration: Humira should be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F).
• Avoid freezing: Do not freeze Humira. If the medication accidentally freezes, do not use it and contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Protection from light: Keep Humira in its original carton to protect it from light.

Disposal of Humira:

• Unused or expired medication: Do not keep or use Humira that is no longer needed or has expired. Follow your local guidelines or consult a pharmacist for proper disposal methods.
• Sharps container: Used needles, syringes, or injection devices should be disposed of in an appropriate sharps container. Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can guide you on the proper disposal of sharps containers.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Accidental injection or overdose: If you or someone else accidentally injects too much Humira or experiences severe side effects, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• Symptoms of overdose: Symptoms may vary depending on the individual, but they could include severe headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or increased risk of infections. It’s important to seek medical help if you suspect an overdose.

What other information should I know?

• Administration: Humira is typically injected under the skin (subcutaneous injection). Follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider for the correct administration technique.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are necessary while taking Humira to monitor your condition and assess the medication’s effectiveness and safety.
• Side effects: Like any medication, Humira can cause side effects. Common side effects include injection site reactions, upper respiratory infections, headaches, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider.
• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies or sensitivities before starting Humira. If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, that you are taking, as they may interact with Humira.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of Humira with your healthcare provider.

Remember, this information is not exhaustive, and it’s essential to consult the prescribing information and follow the guidance provided by your healthcare provider and the medication’s packaging.