WARNING

Adalimumab is a medication used to treat various inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. While it can be effective in managing these conditions, like any medication, it carries certain risks. Here are some potential risks associated with taking Adalimumab injections:

• Infections: Adalimumab can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. Serious infections, including tuberculosis and fungal infections, have been reported in some patients. It is important to be cautious and notify your doctor if you develop any signs of infection, such as fever, persistent cough, or skin infections.
• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Adalimumab, which can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling, or rash. If you have a history of allergies or experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
• Immune system disorders: Adalimumab affects the immune system, and in some cases, it may increase the risk of developing certain immune system disorders. These can include lupus-like syndrome, vasculitis, or the development of antibodies that could affect the body’s blood cells.
• Rare side effects: Although uncommon, Adalimumab has been associated with rare but serious side effects such as liver problems, heart failure, neurological disorders, and blood disorders. These side effects require medical attention if experienced.
• Cancer risk: There have been reports of an increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma, in patients using Adalimumab. However, the overall risk is relatively low, and the benefits of the medication often outweigh this potential risk.

It’s important to note that these risks may vary depending on the individual, the underlying condition being treated, and other factors. Always consult with your healthcare provider who can provide personalized information about the risks and benefits of Adalimumab based on your specific situation.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Adalimumab injection is prescribed for the treatment of various inflammatory conditions. Here are some of the main indications for which Adalimumab is commonly prescribed:

• Rheumatoid arthritis: Adalimumab is approved for the treatment of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis in adults. It helps reduce joint inflammation, relieve pain, and improve physical function.
• Psoriatic arthritis: Adalimumab is used to treat psoriatic arthritis, a type of arthritis that occurs in some individuals with psoriasis. It helps reduce joint swelling, pain, and stiffness, as well as improve symptoms of psoriasis.
• Ankylosing spondylitis: Adalimumab is prescribed for ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. It helps reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the affected areas.
• Crohn’s disease: Adalimumab is used for the treatment of moderate to severe Crohn’s disease in adults and children. It helps reduce inflammation in the intestines, control symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea, and promote healing of the intestinal lining.
• Ulcerative colitis: Adalimumab is prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe ulcerative colitis in adults who have not responded well to conventional therapies. It helps reduce inflammation in the colon and rectum, alleviate symptoms, and promote remission.
• Plaque psoriasis: Adalimumab is approved for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults. It helps reduce the redness, scaling, and thickness of psoriatic skin lesions, improving the appearance and reducing symptoms.

It’s important to note that Adalimumab is a prescription medication and should only be used under the supervision and guidance of a healthcare professional. The specific condition being treated, its severity, and individual patient factors will determine whether Adalimumab is the appropriate treatment option.

How should this medicine be used?

Adalimumab injection is a medication that is used to treat various inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and Crohn’s disease. It works by reducing inflammation in the body.

Here are general guidelines for using adalimumab injection:

• Administration: Adalimumab is given as a subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected just under the skin. It is usually injected into the thigh or abdomen. In some cases, the upper arm can also be used.
• Preparation: Before using adalimumab, carefully read the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or follow the guidelines on the medication packaging. The medication is usually supplied in prefilled syringes or pens.
• Storage: Adalimumab should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze it. If needed, the medication can be kept at room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for a maximum of 14 days.
• Dosage: The dosage of adalimumab will be determined by your healthcare provider based on your specific condition. Follow their instructions regarding the dosage and schedule. It is typically injected once every 1 or 2 weeks.
• Injection technique: Here is a general overview of the injection process: a. Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it dry. b. Remove the protective cap from the prefilled syringe or pen. c. Pinch the skin at the injection site to create a firm surface. d. Hold the syringe or pen at a 45-degree angle or as instructed by your healthcare provider. e. Insert the needle into the skin and inject the medication by pressing the plunger fully. f. Withdraw the needle and apply gentle pressure to the injection site with a clean cotton ball or tissue. g. Dispose of the used syringe or pen properly according to healthcare waste disposal guidelines.
• Follow-up: Regularly visit your healthcare provider as advised to monitor your progress and assess the effectiveness of the medication. They may adjust the dosage or frequency of injections if necessary.

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and your specific instructions may vary. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for detailed instructions and any specific precautions or recommendations related to your individual situation.

Other uses for this medicine

Regarding other uses for Adalimumab, it is essential to note that medications should only be used for their approved indications. Adalimumab has been approved for the following conditions:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Adalimumab is used to reduce signs and symptoms of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, including joint inflammation, pain, and swelling, and to inhibit the progression of structural damage.
• Psoriatic Arthritis: Adalimumab is used to treat signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, including joint pain, stiffness, and skin manifestations associated with psoriasis.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis: Adalimumab is used to reduce signs and symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints.
• Crohn’s Disease: Adalimumab is used to induce and maintain clinical remission in adults and children with moderate to severe Crohn’s disease when other treatments have been ineffective.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions, here are some important considerations:

• Infections: Adalimumab can suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a current infection or a history of recurring infections. Be cautious about potential signs of infection during treatment, such as fever, cough, or flu-like symptoms.
• Tuberculosis (TB): Before starting adalimumab, it’s important to be screened for tuberculosis. Adalimumab can reactivate latent TB infections, leading to severe complications. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of TB or have been in close contact with someone with active TB.
• Vaccinations: Live vaccines should be avoided while taking adalimumab due to the immunosuppressive effects of the medication. Consult your healthcare provider regarding the timing of vaccinations and appropriate types of vaccines to receive.
• Malignancies: Adalimumab may slightly increase the risk of certain types of cancers, such as lymphoma. Discuss your medical history, including any previous or current cancers, with your healthcare provider.
• Allergic reactions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to adalimumab or any of its components.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Adalimumab should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. It is recommended to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Adalimumab may also be present in breast milk, so it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider regarding its use while breastfeeding.

These precautions are not exhaustive, and it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider or read the medication’s prescribing information for a comprehensive list of precautions, warnings, and potential side effects associated with adalimumab injection

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Adalimumab injection does not typically require specific dietary instructions. However, it is always a good idea to follow a balanced and healthy diet to support your overall well-being and manage your underlying condition.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of adalimumab, here are some general guidelines to follow:

• Contact your healthcare provider: Inform your healthcare provider about the missed dose as soon as possible. They can provide you with specific instructions based on your individual circumstances and the dosing schedule you were following.
• Timing of the missed dose: If you remember shortly after the missed dose, you can take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, it’s generally recommended to skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not double dose: Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Taking more than the prescribed dose can increase the risk of side effects without providing additional benefit.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Adalimumab injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. Not everyone experiences these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. It’s important to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting adalimumab. Here are some common side effects associated with adalimumab:

• Injection site reactions: The most common side effect is injection site reactions, such as redness, itching, pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. These reactions are usually mild and resolve on their own.
• Infections: Adalimumab can increase the risk of infections, including respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and skin infections. Symptoms of an infection may include fever, cough, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms. If you experience any signs of infection, notify your healthcare provider promptly.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions can occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Blood disorders: In some cases, adalimumab may affect blood cells and cause blood disorders. Symptoms may include persistent fever, bruising, bleeding, or unusual fatigue. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms.
• Hepatitis B reactivation: Adalimumab can cause a reactivation of hepatitis B in individuals who are carriers of the virus. Prior to starting treatment, your healthcare provider may screen you for hepatitis B. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of hepatitis B or if you develop signs of hepatitis B infection, such as fatigue, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or abdominal pain.
• Worsening heart failure: Adalimumab may worsen heart failure symptoms in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of heart failure or if you experience increased shortness of breath or swelling of the legs.
• Other possible side effects: Other less common side effects of adalimumab include headache, dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, back pain, respiratory infections, and elevated liver enzymes.

It’s important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of side effects. Some individuals may experience rare or severe side effects not listed here. If you have any concerns about potential side effects, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider for comprehensive information based on your individual circumstances.

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

• Storage: Adalimumab should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Protect it from light. Do not freeze the medication. If needed, the medication can be kept at room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for a maximum of 14 days. Avoid storing it in extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
• Disposal: It is important to properly dispose of used syringes or pens after each injection. Follow local regulations for the disposal of medical waste or sharps containers. Do not throw the medication or used injection materials in the regular trash.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In the event of an emergency, such as a severe allergic reaction or difficulty breathing, call emergency services immediately (e.g., 911 in the United States) or go to the nearest emergency room.
• If you suspect an overdose of adalimumab or have taken more than the prescribed dose, contact your healthcare provider or local poison control center immediately.

What other information should I know?

• Regular follow-up: Adalimumab treatment often requires regular monitoring and follow-up visits with your healthcare provider. It allows them to assess your response to the medication, manage any side effects, and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
• Medication interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, including prescription, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements, that you are taking. Some medications may interact with adalimumab and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.
• Immunizations: Before starting adalimumab, discuss with your healthcare provider the recommended immunizations. Live vaccines are generally not recommended while on adalimumab due to the medication’s immunosuppressive effects.
• Travel considerations: If you plan to travel, ensure you have enough medication to last the duration of your trip. Properly store adalimumab during travel according to the recommended temperature guidelines. If you have any concerns or questions about traveling with adalimumab, consult your healthcare provider.
• Keep appointments: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider, including laboratory tests or imaging studies, to monitor your condition and the effectiveness of adalimumab.
• Patient support programs: Some pharmaceutical companies or organizations provide patient support programs or resources for individuals taking adalimumab. These programs may offer educational materials, financial assistance, or other forms of support. You can inquire about such programs from your healthcare provider or directly from the manufacturer.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized instructions and information specific to your treatment plan and individual needs. They can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding adalimumab and address any specific concerns you may have.