Drug
Adalimumab
Pronounced
"a-da-LIM-ue-mab"
Uses
Adalimumab is used to reduce pain and swelling due to certain types of arthritis (such as rheumatoid, psoriatic, juvenile idiopathic, ankylosing spondylitis). This medication is also used to treat certain skin disorders (such as plaque-type psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa). It works by blocking a protein (tumor necrosis factor or TNF) found in the body's immune system that causes joint swelling and damage in arthritis as well as red scaly patches in psoriasis. Adalimumab belongs to a class of drugs known as TNF blockers. By reducing joint swelling, this medication helps to reduce further joint damage and preserve joint function.
Adalimumab is also used to treat certain bowel conditions (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis) and a certain eye disease (uveitis).
This monograph is about the following adalimumab products: adalimumab, adalimumab-aacf, adalimumab-aaty, adalimumab-adaz, adalimumab-adbm, adalimumab-afzb, adalimumab-aqvh, adalimumab-atto, adalimumab-bwwd, adalimumab-fkjp, and adalimumab-ryvk.
Warning
This medication can decrease your body's ability to fight an infection. This effect can lead to very serious (possibly fatal) infections (such as fungal infections, bacterial infections including tuberculosis). Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of past/recent/current infections. You should also tell your doctor if you have lived or traveled in areas where certain fungal infections (such as coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis) are common or if you have been near someone with tuberculosis. Areas where these types of fungal infections are commonly found include the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys and the southwestern United States. Tell your doctor right away if you develop signs of infection (see Side Effects section).
Your doctor will test you for tuberculosis (TB) infection before and during treatment with this drug. If you are diagnosed with TB, your doctor will first prescribe treatment for this to prevent a serious TB infection while using adalimumab.
Though it is very unlikely to happen, there is a risk (especially in children/teens/young adults) of developing cancer (such as lymphoma, skin cancer) due to this medication or due to your medical condition. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms such as a fever that doesn't go away, unusual lumps/growths, swollen glands, unexplained weight loss, or night sweats.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using adalimumab and each time you get a refill. Ask your health care professional how to prepare and use this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Inject this medication under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually every other week or once a week in some cases. The injection is given in the thigh or abdomen. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Children's dosage is also based on weight. If you are using this medication to treat psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or uveitis, your doctor may prescribe a different schedule/higher dose at the start of your treatment. Carefully follow your doctor's directions for using this medication.
Take the medication out of the refrigerator 15 to 30 minutes before you inject it to allow it to reach room temperature. Do not warm up this medication any other way (for example, do not heat in the microwave or place it in hot water). Before using, check this product for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. New injections should be given at least 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) from an old site. Do not inject into skin that is sore, bruised, red, or hard. To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a reminder. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.