Humira: A Comprehensive Guide Humira is a brand name for adalimumab, a medication used to treat autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. Humira is a biologic drug that works by blocking tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), which is involved in inflammation. Uses of Humira Humira is used to treat several autoimmune disorders: 1. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Humira is used to treat intense pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. It helps slow down the damage being done to the joints and improves the patient’s quality of life. 2. Psoriatic Arthritis: Humira is used to treat the joint and skin symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. It helps relieve the pain, stiffness and redness of the joints and reduces the inflammation and scaling of the skin. 3. Ankylosing Spondylitis: Humira is used to treat the stiffness and pain in the lower back, hips, and neck caused by ankylosing spondylitis. It helps improve mobility and reduces inflammation in the affected areas. 4. Crohn’s Disease: Humira reduces inflammation in the digestive system and helps relieve the symptoms of Crohn’s disease, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. 5. Ulcerative Colitis: Humira is used to treat the inflammation in the colon that causes ulcerative colitis. It helps reduce symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. Dosage of Humira The dosage of Humira that a doctor prescribes may depend on several factors, including the condition being treated, the patient’s weight, and their overall health status. The recommended starting dose for most conditions is 40mg injected under the skin every other week. Your doctor may increase the dose to 40mg given every week if you don’t feel any benefits or if your condition worsens. Humira should be injected subcutaneously in the stomach, thighs or upper arms. Patients can self-administer the drug after receiving proper training. The injection should not be taken in areas that are inflamed or infected. Demographics Using Humira Humira is FDA approved for use in adults, pediatric patients aged 2 years and above with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and patients with non-infectious intermediate, posterior, and panuveitis. However, the drug is not recommended for anyone who has an allergy to ingredients in the medication. Side Effects of Humira Like many medications, Humira can cause side effects. Common side effects include injection site reactions, rash, headache, nausea, and upper respiratory infections. Most of these side effects are mild and can be managed with over-the-counter medications. However, some people may experience more severe side effects, such as: 1. Infections: Humira increases the risk of infections. Patients should contact their physician immediately if they experience symptoms such as fever, fatigue, coughing, or shortness of breath. 2. Blood Problems: Humira can cause changes in blood cells, leading to anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. 3. Nervous System Problems: Humira can cause nervous system problems such as demyelinating disorders, seizures, and optic neuritis. Interactions with Humira As with any medication, Humira can interact with other drugs, herbs, and supplements. Some drugs that can interact with Humira include: 1. TNF antagonists: Using other TNF blockers with Humira could increase the risk of infections. 2. Live vaccines: Patients on Humira should avoid taking live vaccines. 3. Immunomodulators: Concomitant use of Humira with drugs that suppress the immune system may increase the risk of infections. Generic Options of Humira At this time, generic versions of Humira are not available in the United States. However, patients may be eligible for financial assistance programs from the makers of the medication or from non-profit organizations. It is always advisable to talk to a healthcare provider and explore all the options available before settling with a specific medication. Conclusion Humira is a medication used to treat autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. It works by blocking TNF-alpha, which is involved in inflammation. It is recommended to use it only under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Despite the side effects, it has helped countless patients manage their autoimmune conditions and improve their quality of life.