Humira

Uses of Humira

Humira (adalimumab) is a medication classified as a TNF blocker, targeting a protein called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). This protein is integral to how the body responds to inflammation. Humira works by binding to TNF-alpha and inhibiting its action, thereby reducing inflammation. This explains why it’s used in conditions with a lot of inflammation and immune system activity, like:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
• Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)
• Plaque Psoriasis (PS)
• Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)
• Crohn’s Disease (CD)
• Ulcerative Colitis (UC)
  

Precautions and Warnings

Before using this medicine, here are precautions and warnings you need to consider:

• Humira weakens the body’s infection-fighting ability, increasing the risk of serious infections like tuberculosis. Tuberculosis testing before and during treatment is essential.
• Using TNF blockers like Humira may raise the chance of lymphoma, skin cancers, and rare cases of a specific lymphoma type. Discuss individual risks with a healthcare provider.
• Inform your doctor about past or existing health issues, including infections, diabetes, hepatitis B, heart failure, nervous system diseases, or previous cancer history before starting Humira.
• Serious allergic reactions are possible. Watch for hives, breathing difficulties, and facial swelling. Seek immediate medical help if these occur.
• Inform your doctor if you experience persistent fever, any signs of infection, easy bruising or bleeding, or extreme paleness while on Humira. 

Humira Dosage

The dosage of Humira (adalimumab) varies depending on the condition that needs treatment. Here’s a general overview, but always follow your doctor’s instructions: 

Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, and Hidradenitis Suppurativa:

Usually, a starting dose of 40 mg is given through a subcutaneous injection, followed by a maintenance injection of 40 mg every two weeks.

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis:

The dosage is based on weight. The initial dose for patients under 30 kg is 20 mg, followed by 20 mg every other week. For those over 30 kg, the initial dose is 40 mg, followed by 40 mg every other week.

Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis:

The initial dose is often 160 mg, given as two injections on day one, followed by 80 mg two weeks later. Subsequent doses of 40 mg are administered every two weeks for maintenance.

Chronic Plaque Psoriasis:

The suggested regimen starts with an 80 mg initial dose, followed by 40 mg every two weeks, beginning a week after the first dose.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Discomfort, inflammation, and swelling at the injection site
• Sinus infections
• Headaches and nausea
• Skin rashes

Severe side effects:

• Fever
• Persistent cough
• Weight loss
• Difficulty breathing
• Numbness
• Bruising
• Vision problems 
• Dizziness 
• Red patches on the skin
• Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin) 
• Blood in phlegm