Understanding Your Medication: Adalimumab

Summary or Key Points

Adalimumab is a powerful medication utilized in the treatment of various inflammatory conditions. It works by reducing the effects of substances causing inflammation in the body. Patients should understand that while Adalimumab is an effective treatment, it requires proper administration and can have side effects. Consulting a healthcare provider is crucial to manage these potential complications effectively. Our telemedicine providers are readily available to help guide you through your treatment journey.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Humira (Generic name: Adalimumab)

For patients who might not be familiar, a ‘generic name’ is the standard medical name for the drug, which doesn’t belong to any specific brand. It is the name given to the medication when it is first developed. The generic name for this medication is given in parenthesis: Adalimumab.

Pharmacologic Category

Adalimumab belongs to a class of drugs known as TNF (tumor necrosis factor) inhibitors. Other medications in this category include Infliximab (Remicade), Etanercept (Enbrel), Certolizumab (Cimzia), and Golimumab (Simponi).

Dosing

The dosing for Adalimumab varies according to the disease being treated. It’s critical to always consult your doctor or one of our dedicated telemedicine providers before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Crohn’s Disease: Initial dose of 160 mg, then 80 mg after two weeks, followed by 40 mg every other week starting at week four.
Ulcerative Colitis: Initial dose of 160 mg, then 80 mg two weeks later, then 40 mg every other week starting one month after initial dose.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: 40 mg every other week.
Psoriasis: Initial dose of 80 mg, followed by 40 mg every other week starting one week after initial dose.
Psoriatic Arthritis: 40 mg every other week, can be taken with or without methotrexate.
Ankylosing Spondylitis: 40 mg every other week.
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: The dose depends on body weight, generally 20 mg every other week for patients weighing less than 30 kg and 40 mg every other week for those weighing 30 kg or more.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Adalimumab is available in the following forms and strengths:

Single-use prefilled syringe: 40 mg/0.8 mL
Single-use prefilled pen (Humira Pen): 40 mg/0.8 mL
Single-use institutional use vial: 40 mg/0.8 mL
Single-use prefilled syringe for pediatric use: 20 mg/0.4 mL

Administration Instructions

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Like all medications, Adalimumab has potential side effects. It is vital to consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine experts to manage and report any symptoms that may arise.

Common: The most common side effects include injection site reactions (redness, itching, bleeding, swelling or pain), headaches, rash, and nausea.
Infrequent: Less frequent but serious side effects may include trouble breathing, severe stomach pain, and vision changes.
Rare: On rare occasions, Adalimumab can cause severe allergic reactions, blood disorders, liver problems, and nervous system disorders.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately. Our telemedicine providers are on hand to guide you in managing these side effects.

Interactions with Other Drugs

Adalimumab can interact with other medications, including other biologics, immunosuppressants, and vaccines. Always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking to avoid potential interactions. Our telemedicine providers can help assess your medication regimen for any potential interactions.

Precautions and Contraindications

Adalimumab should be used with caution in patients with a history of infections, demyelinating disease, heart failure, or malignancies. Patients should be screened for tuberculosis before starting treatment. Remember, your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine experts is the best person to consult for personalized advice.

Monitoring and Lab Tests

While on Adalimumab, regular monitoring and lab tests may be needed to check for potential complications or side effects. These may include complete blood counts, liver function tests, and regular screenings for tuberculosis and other infections. Our telemedicine providers can arrange for these tests and monitor your progress remotely, ensuring your treatment is as safe and effective as possible.

Conclusion

Adalimumab can be an effective treatment for various inflammatory conditions when used correctly. Understanding your medication is crucial to managing your condition effectively. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen. If you have any further questions, our team of dedicated telemedicine professionals is here to help guide you every step of the way.

Please note, this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine experts for personal advice.

Contraindications

Contraindications refer to specific situations or conditions where a particular medication should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. Adalimumab has a few contraindications:

Active serious infections: Adalimumab can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections, leading to serious and sometimes fatal infections.
Tuberculosis: Patients with active tuberculosis should not use Adalimumab, as it can worsen the condition. Even latent (inactive) tuberculosis can become active during treatment.
Severe heart failure: Adalimumab may worsen symptoms in patients with severe heart failure.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Several drugs can interact with Adalimumab, potentially altering its effects. Some examples include:

Anakinra (Kineret)
Abatacept (Orencia)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Always consult with your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine professionals before taking any new medication.

Adalimumab in Pregnancy

Adalimumab should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s crucial to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine experts.

Adalimumab while Breastfeeding

Adalimumab does pass into breast milk. While no adverse effects have been noted in infants, breastfeeding while taking Adalimumab should be discussed with your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine professionals.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Adalimumab without insurance, using a GoodRx coupon, is around $5,600. Costs can vary based on location and pharmacy, so it’s always best to check local prices.

Possible Alternatives

There are alternative treatments and lifestyle changes available for the conditions treated by Adalimumab. Always remember to discuss these options with your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine professionals before making any changes to your treatment plan.

Crohn’s Disease: Alternatives may include other medications, dietary changes, stress management, and in some cases, surgery.
Ulcerative Colitis: Other anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, dietary changes, and potentially surgery may be considered.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Physical therapy, lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise, and other medications may be beneficial.
Psoriasis: Topical treatments, light therapy, and other systemic medications can be used.
Psoriatic Arthritis: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications can be helpful.
Ankylosing Spondylitis: Physical therapy, NSAIDs, and lifestyle changes may be useful.
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Physical therapy, NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and other immunosuppressants may be recommended.

Recent Updates on Adalimumab Research

Recent studies on Adalimumab continue to explore its efficacy and safety in various conditions. For example, current research is investigating the long-term safety and effectiveness of Adalimumab in juvenile idiopathic arthritis. In rheumatology, studies are focusing on identifying predictors for Adalimumab response in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Always keep in touch with your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine professionals to stay up-to-date with the latest information regarding your treatment.

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.
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.

Understanding Adalimumab: A Comprehensive Patient Guide | Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment Options Explained