Adalimumab
Also known as: Humira · Amgevita · Hyrimoz · Imraldi · Yuflyma
Adalimumab, best known by the brand name Humira, is a biologic injection that has helped many of my patients regain quality of life. It is used when conventional DMARDs are not enough.
Calm, careful medication review by a consultant rheumatologist.
What this medicine is
Adalimumab is a monoclonal antibody that blocks a signalling protein called TNF, which drives inflammation in many rheumatic conditions. It is given as a subcutaneous injection, usually every two weeks.
Uses and context
It is used in rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and other spondyloarthritis, as well as some non-rheumatology conditions.
How this relates to rheumatology care
Before starting, I do a thorough infection screen, including TB and hepatitis, and check vaccination status. I teach injection technique carefully and plan regular reviews to check both response and safety.
What safety checks may matter
TB screening (chest X-ray and IGRA/Mantoux) before starting
Hepatitis B and C screening
Vaccination review; ideally update non-live vaccines before starting
Baseline full blood count, liver function
Ongoing review for infection risk at each visit
Side effects and red flags
If you have emergency symptoms such as severe allergic reaction, breathing difficulty, chest pain, stroke-like symptoms, severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black stools, sudden vision loss, severe infection symptoms, or severe weakness or confusion, please seek urgent medical care first rather than waiting for a WhatsApp reply.
Persistent fever, chills, cough or night sweats
New or worsening shortness of breath
Signs of severe infection or slow-healing wounds
Signs of severe allergic reaction
A new or changing skin lesion
New neurological symptoms such as weakness or numbness
Things worth knowing day to day
Avoid live vaccines while on adalimumab.
Store pens or syringes in the fridge; follow the leaflet on travel.
Tell any doctor or dentist that you are on a biologic before surgery.
Skip a dose during a significant infection and check with me.
Questions patients often ask me about this medicine
Speak with me
If adalimumab has been suggested or you are already on it, please message my clinic. I would like to help you get the most benefit with the least worry.
Other medications used in rheumatology care
This page is for general education only and does not replace medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Do not start, stop, or change any medicine without advice from your doctor.