Humira (adalimumab) is a medication administered via injection. According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), it is used to relieve symptoms of autoimmune disorders including Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. Humira works by blocking TNF, a substance in the body that causes inflammation. It is usually injected under the skin every other week. Your doctor can give you the first injection in his office and instruct you about how to administer subsequent injections.
Common Side Effects
There are common side effects of Humira. The NLM recommends contacting your doctor if any of the following symptoms are experienced severely or for a long period of time: redness, itching, pain, bruising, pain or swelling at the injection site, stomach pain, nausea, headache or back pain.
Serious Side Effects
Some side effects of Humira can be serious. These side effects are not common, but if you experience any of them, contact your doctor immediately. Serious side effects include: dizziness, problems with vision, chest pain, numbness or tingling, joint pain, shortness of breath, rash (especially on the cheeks and arms), hives, itching, and swelling of the face or extremities. Other serious side effects that merit contacting your doctor are: difficulty breathing or swallowing, fever, sore throat, chills, unusual bruising or bleeding, or pale skin.
Contraindications/Warnings
NLM reports that using Humira may increase your risk of developing certain types of cancers like lymphoma. Using Humira may also decrease your ability to fight infection or increase the possibility that you could develop a serious or life-threatening infection. Let your doctor know if you have any sort of infection now (like minor cuts or open sores) or if you have any flu-like symptoms that can be a sign of infection (such as cough or fever).
If you take this medication for a long period of time, the Mayo Clinic recommends that you see your doctor regularly and have blood work done to ensure no unwanted effects are occurring. You may also need a skin test for tuberculosis prior to starting this medication.
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