Humira is a brand name for the medication adalimumab. Adalimumab is a biologic drug that belongs to a class of medications known as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors. It is used to treat various autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions by targeting and inhibiting the action of TNF-alpha, a protein in the body that plays a role in inflammation.

Humira is commonly prescribed to treat the following conditions:

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis: It is used to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis in adults.
2. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Humira is sometimes prescribed to children with certain forms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
3. Ankylosing Spondylitis: It is used to treat ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine.
4. Psoriatic Arthritis: Humira is prescribed for psoriatic arthritis, a condition that combines joint inflammation with psoriasis, a skin disorder.
5. Crohn's Disease: It is used to treat moderate to severe Crohn's disease in adults and children over the age of six.
6. Ulcerative Colitis: Humira is prescribed to treat moderate to severe ulcerative colitis in adults.

Taking Humira (adalimumab) requires following a specific administration process, and it's essential to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and receive proper training on how to use it. Humira is typically administered via subcutaneous injection. Here are general steps for taking Humira:

1. Prepare the Humira Pen or Pre-filled Syringe:
   • Check the expiration date on the Humira Pen or pre-filled syringe. Do not use if expired.
   • Allow the medication to come to room temperature by letting it sit on the counter for about 15-30 minutes
   • Inspect the solution. It should be clear and colourless. Do not use if it's discoloured or contains particles.
2. Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
3. Select and Clean the Injection Site:
   • Common injection sites include the front of the thighs or the lower abdomen.
   • Use an alcohol swab to clean the injection site, and let it air dry.
4. Inject the Medication:
   • If using the Humira Pen, remove the cap and attach the needle cap. If using a pre-filled syringe, remove the needle cover.
   • Hold the pen or syringe with the hand you write with, like a pencil.
   • Pinch the cleaned area of the skin and insert the needle at a 45 to 90-degree angle.
   • Slowly press the plunger to inject the medication.
   • Continue to press the plunger until it stops moving, and you see the "0" in the dose window.
   • Hold the pen or syringe in place for a few seconds to make sure all the medication is delivered.
   • Carefully remove the needle from your skin.
5. Dispose of Sharps Safely:
   • Place the used needle and syringe or pen in a sharps disposal container.
   • Do not recap the needle.
   • Follow your local regulations for proper disposal of sharps containers.
6. Record Your Injection: Keep a record of when and where you injected the medication.

If you forget to take your prescribed dose of Humira (adalimumab), it's important to follow specific guidelines to ensure that you receive the missed dose as soon as possible. Missing doses of Humira can impact the effectiveness of your treatment. Here's what you should do if you forget to take Humira:

1. Take the Missed Dose as Soon as Possible: If you realize that you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
2. Notify Your Healthcare Provider: It's a good practice to inform your healthcare provider about the missed dose, especially if you frequently miss doses. They can provide guidance on what to do next and whether any adjustments are needed in your treatment plan.
3. Adjust Your Schedule: If you miss a dose and take it later, you may need to adjust your dosing schedule to ensure that you maintain the recommended interval between doses. Your healthcare provider can advise you on how to adjust the timing of your subsequent doses.

Taking too much Humira (adalimumab) can lead to an increased risk of side effects and complications. It's crucial to adhere to your healthcare provider's prescribed dosing instructions and not exceed the recommended dosage. If you believe you have accidentally taken more Humira than you should, contact your healthcare provider or seek medical attention immediately.

Overdosing on Humira may result in an increased risk of adverse effects, which can include:

1. Increased Risk of Infections: Humira suppresses the immune system, and taking too much can make you more susceptible to infections.
2. Allergic Reactions: An overdose can increase the risk of allergic reactions, which can be severe in some cases. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and hives.
3. Exacerbation of Common Side Effects: Overdosing can lead to an exacerbation of common side effects of Humira, such as headache, fatigue, nausea, and injection site reactions.
4. Gastrointestinal Problems: Taking too much Humira may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, or upset stomach.

Proper storage of Humira (adalimumab) is essential to maintain the medication's effectiveness and safety. Here are some guidelines on how to store Humira:

1. Refrigeration: Humira should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Keep it in the original carton to protect it from light.
2. Do Not Freeze: Do not allow Humira to freeze. Freezing can compromise the effectiveness of the medication.
3. Room Temperature Storage (Short-Term):
   • If you need to take Humira with you for a short period (e.g., for travel), you can store it at room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for up to 14 days.
   • Protect the medication from light during this time.

Humira (adalimumab) is a medication used to treat various autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions. Like many medications, it can have potential side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience them to a greater or lesser extent. Common side effects of Humira may include:

1. Injection Site Reactions: Redness, swelling, itching, or pain at the injection site are common side effects. These symptoms are usually mild and temporary.
2. Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: These can include symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and a sore throat.
3. Headache: Mild to moderate headaches can occur.
4. Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea, although it is often mild and temporary.
5. Abdominal Pain: Discomfort or mild pain in the abdominal area is possible.
6. Rash: Skin rashes can occur.
7. Dizziness: Some people may feel dizzy.
8. Hypertension: An increase in blood pressure has been reported in some cases.
9. Back Pain: Mild to moderate back pain may occur.
10. Changes in Blood Tests: Humira can affect certain blood parameters, such as liver enzyme levels. Regular monitoring by your healthcare provider is important to assess these changes.

Humira (adalimumab) can interact with other medications, and it's essential to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs you are taking to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment. Here are some important interactions to be aware of:

1. Other Biologic Drugs: Using Humira with other biologic medications, especially those that inhibit tumor necrosis factor (TNF), may increase the risk of infections and side effects. Combining multiple biologics is generally not recommended and should only be done under the close supervision of a healthcare provider.
2. Live Vaccines: Humira can weaken your immune system. Avoid receiving live vaccines while on Humira, as they may cause an uncontrolled infection. Consult your healthcare provider about vaccination schedules and options.
3. Immunosuppressant Medications: Combining Humira with other immunosuppressant drugs may increase the risk of infections. Your healthcare provider will carefully assess the risks and benefits if you are taking multiple immunosuppressants.
4. Certain Medications for Heart Failure: Some medications used to treat heart failure, such as nitrates, may interact with Humira. Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking medications for heart-related conditions.

The experience of pain during Humira (adalimumab) injections can vary from person to person. For some individuals, the injections may be relatively painless, while others may experience some discomfort. Factors that can influence the level of pain or discomfort include:

1. Individual Sensitivity: Some people are more sensitive to needle injections and may find the process slightly painful or uncomfortable. Others may hardly feel it.
2. Injection Technique: The way the injection is administered can affect the level of discomfort. Proper technique, such as using a quick, steady motion to insert the needle, can minimize discomfort.
3. Injection Site: The choice of injection site can make a difference. The front of the thighs or the lower abdomen are commonly used sites. Discuss with your healthcare provider to find the most comfortable site for you.
4. Temperature of Medication: Allowing the Humira Pen or pre-filled syringe to come to room temperature before injection can reduce pain and discomfort.
5. Needle Size: The size of the needle used can influence pain. Smaller-gauge needles tend to be less painful.
6. Relaxation: Staying relaxed and taking slow, deep breaths during the injection can help reduce anxiety and perceived pain.
7. Medication Warm-Up: Some people find it more comfortable to let the skin warm up before injecting, which can be done by holding the pen or syringe in your hand for a few minutes before administering the injection.

It's essential to communicate with your healthcare provider or nurse about any pain or discomfort you experience during Humira injections. They can provide guidance on injection techniques and may offer tips to make the process more comfortable. Additionally, if you find the pain to be a significant issue, your healthcare provider can discuss alternative methods or medications to manage your condition.

Overall, while some discomfort is possible during Humira injections, the benefits of the medication in managing autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions typically outweigh the temporary discomfort.

Does Humira lower your immune system?

Yes, Humira (adalimumab) is an immunosuppressive medication that works by suppressing or modulating the immune system. It is classified as a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor. By targeting and inhibiting TNF-alpha, Humira reduces the immune system's inflammatory response. This suppression of the immune response is what makes Humira effective in treating autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis.

However, because Humira lowers the immune response, it can also increase the risk of infections. It's essential to be vigilant for signs of infection while taking Humira and to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and guidelines for monitoring and managing your health. If you develop any symptoms of infection, such as fever, cough, or persistent sore throat, it's important to contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Additionally, due to the immunosuppressive effect, live vaccines should not be administered while taking Humira, as they may cause uncontrolled infections. Consult with your healthcare provider about vaccination schedules and options before and during Humira treatment.

The use of Humira and other immunosuppressive medications should be closely monitored and managed by a healthcare provider to achieve the best balance between controlling the autoimmune disease or inflammatory condition and minimizing the risk of infections and other potential side effects.

How long can Humira be out of the fridge?

Humira (adalimumab) should be stored in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C. It's essential to follow proper storage guidelines to ensure the medication's effectiveness and safety. However, there are specific guidelines for how long Humira can be out of the refrigerator under certain circumstances:

Travel: If you need to take Humira with you for travel or other reasons, the medication can be stored at room temperature 25°C for up to 14 days. During this time, it's crucial to protect the medication from direct sunlight and extreme heat.

Brief Periods: If Humira is briefly out of the refrigerator for a short period, such as when preparing to administer the injection, it should not pose a problem as long as you return it to the refrigerator promptly.

Returning to Refrigerator: Once Humira has been out of the refrigerator at room temperature for any period (up to 14 days for travel), it should be stored back in the refrigerator until the next use.

Ace provides accurate and independent information medically reviewed on prescription medications. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.