Medication Profile: Adalimumab

Names of Medication

The medication is most commonly known by its US brand name, Humira. The generic name for this drug is Adalimumab.

Pharmacologic Category

Adalimumab is part of a class of medications known as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers. Other medications in this category include infliximab (Remicade), certolizumab (Cimzia), and etanercept (Enbrel).

Dosing

The dosing of Adalimumab varies depending on the specific disease being treated. Here is a list of conditions it treats along with the standard dosing recommendations:

Rheumatoid Arthritis

The usual dose is 40mg every other week.

Psoriatic Arthritis

The typical starting dose is 40mg every other week.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Standard treatment involves a dose of 40mg every other week.

Crohn’s Disease

Treatment often starts with an initial dose of 160mg, then 80mg two weeks later, and then 40mg every other week starting one week after the 80mg dose.

Ulcerative Colitis

Initial dose is typically 160mg, followed by 80mg two weeks later, and then 40mg every other week from the fourth week onwards.

Plaque Psoriasis

Standard treatment involves an initial dose of 80mg, followed by 40mg every other week starting one week after the initial dose.

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Dosing is based on body weight, with those weighing less than 30kg typically receiving 20mg every other week, and those weighing more than 30kg typically receiving 40mg every other week.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

The initial dose is usually 160mg, then 80mg two weeks later, and then 40mg every week starting from the fourth week.

Uveitis and Non-Infectious Intermediate, Posterior, and Panuveitis

The usual dose is 80mg initially, followed by 40mg every other week starting one week after the initial dose.

Pediatric Crohn’s Disease

Dosing is typically based on body weight, with the standard dose being 20mg for those weighing 17-39 kg and 40mg for those weighing 40kg or more, every other week.
Remember, never adjust your dose or dosing schedule without consulting your doctor first.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Adalimumab is available in the following forms and strengths:
Pre-filled syringe: 40mg/0.8mL
Pre-filled pen: 40mg/0.8mL
Vial: 40mg/vial

Administration Instructions

Adalimumab is administered via subcutaneous injection. It is typically injected into the thigh or abdomen. Rotate injection sites with each dose to avoid soreness at any one site.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Common side effects of Adalimumab include:

Infections (very common)

Adalimum ab may lower your ability to fight infections, leading to various types of infections, such as sinus infections, common cold, and urinary tract infections. It’s due to the medication’s immunosuppressive properties, which can make the body more susceptible to infections.

Injection site reactions (common)

This includes redness, swelling, itching, or discomfort at the injection site. This happens because the immune system may react to the injection, causing local inflammation.

Headache (common)

Headaches may occur as a response to the changes in your body’s immune system.

Rashes (uncommon)

Some people may develop rashes due to allergic reactions to the medication.
Serious side effects include:

Severe infections (less common)

These include tuberculosis, sepsis, fungal infections, and other opportunistic infections. Adalimumab can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections.

Cancers (rare)

In some cases, adalimumab has been associated with certain types of cancers like lymphoma and skin cancer. However, it’s not entirely clear if the drug increases this risk, or if it’s due to the nature of inflammatory conditions for which it’s used.

Contraindications to Taking Adalimumab

Contraindications mean situations when Adalimumab should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient.

Allergy to Adalimumab or its ingredients

Patients who are allergic to Adalimumab or any of its components should not take this medication.

Active severe infections

Adalimumab can lower your ability to fight infections, so it’s contraindicated in people with active severe infections.

Tuberculosis

Patients with active tuberculosis should not take Adalimumab because it can worsen the condition.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Certain medications may interact with Adalimumab, including:
Abatacept (Orencia)
Anakinra (Kineret)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Adalimumab in Pregnancy

Adalimumab is classified as a pregnancy category B drug, which means it’s not expected to harm an unborn baby. However, you should always consult your doctor if you’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking this medication.

Adalimumab while Breastfeeding

It’s not known whether Adalimumab passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while taking this medication.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The cost of Adalimumab can vary, but without insurance, a one-month supply of Adalimumab is estimated to be around $5000 – $6000 with a GoodRx coupon. Remember, this price may vary based on the pharmacy, location, and any negotiated agreements.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.

Meta Title: Adalimumab (Humira): Uses, Dosing, Side Effects, and More
Meta Description: A comprehensive guide on Adalimumab, a TNF blocker used for treating a range of conditions including rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease. Understand dosing guidelines, potential side effects, interactions, and more. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.