Adalimumab (Humira)

What effect does Adalimumab have on the body?
Adalimumab is a medication that treats arthritis, reduces the severity of inflammation, helps relieve symptoms, and protects joints from further damage.

How is it taken?
This medication is taken by injection into the fatty layer of the skin. Hands should be washed before and after use. The injection site should be changed each time. The syringe should be discarded after single use. Needles should be disposed of in a sharps container, and the container should be returned to the healthcare provider when full.

What do I need to do while taking this medication?
Reasons to contact your doctor immediately:

• If you suspect you have taken an overdose, contact the emergency department immediately.

• Signs of life-threatening adverse reactions include wheezing, chest tightness, fever, itching, severe cough, bluish skin color, seizures, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

• Signs or symptoms of infection include fever, chills, severe sore throat, ear or sinus pain, cough, increased or changed sputum color, pain during urination, mouth ulcers, non-healing wounds, or itching or pain in the anal area.

• Shortness of breath.

• Severe headache.

• Swelling of the legs or abdomen.

• Any skin rash.

How should this medication be stored?
It should be stored in the refrigerator and not frozen.

What are some possible side effects of this medication?
The most common side effects include:

• Mild skin reaction at the injection site (itching, redness, and mild swelling).

• Upper respiratory tract infection (e.g., sinusitis).

Rare side effects include:

• Adalimumab can cause a decrease in white blood cell counts (needed to fight infection) or red blood cell counts (which carry oxygen).

• If serious infections are associated with Humira use, any infection or fever should be taken very seriously and you should consult your doctor.

• There have been rare reports of some patients developing disorders affecting the nervous system while taking Adalimumab.

• You should inform your doctor if you have congestive heart failure, as this medication may worsen the condition.

Do I need regular blood tests while taking Adalimumab?
Blood tests are not routinely required while taking Adalimumab.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Adalimumab?
If you forget to take Adalimumab, contact your doctor to find out when to take your next dose.

Is Adalimumab safe during pregnancy?
Adalimumab is a new medication, and it is unknown whether it is safe to use during pregnancy. Women should avoid taking Adalimumab during pregnancy. All women who could become pregnant and are taking Adalimumab should use a reliable method of contraception. Breastfeeding is prohibited while taking Adalimumab.

What is the usual dose of Adalimumab?
Adalimumab is given by subcutaneous injection twice a month. The standard dose per injection is 40 mg.

Who is prohibited from taking Adalimumab?

• Patients who have had a severe allergic reaction to Adalimumab previously.

• Patients who may have cancer or have a past medical history of cancers.

• Patients with severe or uncontrolled congestive heart failure.

• Patients with multiple sclerosis.

Who should avoid taking Adalimumab?

• You should discuss all vaccinations with your doctor, as some vaccines are not recommended while taking Adalimumab.

• If you are scheduled for surgery, please inform your doctor.