Humira and Psoriasis: What Users Say

• Hum...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 12, 2019

For Ankylosing Spondylitis "Any negative ankylosing spondylitis experience I had before taking Humira was heaven compared to the awfulness Humira has caused me. There were zero positives for me while taking Humira. Even though I quit Humira a while ago, all of the negative symptoms Humira caused still continue. Now I have ankylosing spondylitis, daily headaches, extreme fatigue, constantly feel like I have the flu, way more back pain than before, constant vertigo, and psoriasis all over my scalp and jawline! I vomit a little bit in my mouth every time I see one of those ridiculous Humira commercials on TV. Humira was free for me thanks to the Canadian government and my insurance. I can’t imagine actually paying for this horrible drug. My heart goes out to anyone in the US that must pay out of pocket to play Russian roulette with their health by trying Humira. I wouldn’t use Humira again if someone paid me a million dollars! Absolutely the worst experience of my life."

• All...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 8, 2019

For Hidradenitis Suppurativa "My wife was put on Humira for HS. She was taking it for two months when she started to get what looked like ant bites on her hands and feet. The nurse practitioner who put her on Humira said that wasn't from Humira, so she kept taking it, but after her next dose, it exploded and got way worse. So after doing some research myself, I found out pustular psoriasis was one of the rare side effects. Here we are, two months after stopping taking it, and she's got all kinds of skin issues like contact dermatitis, severe pustular psoriasis which is only being controlled by steroids. She has lost 50% of her hair. Humira has ruined our lives."

• Di ...
• January 17, 2014

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "Been on this for almost 10 years. I now have frequent sinus headaches that are difficult to clear. Am fatigued but able to function well on this medicine, but now have stomach pain and also use methyprednisolone. Also, vasculitis has appeared in my ankle, and it's here to stay. I plan to stop and start Sulfasalazine EC to take its place as a DMARD, at least. An old case of psoriasis appeared after my 4th year but left entirely after 3 years. On my feet, and utterly painful."

• Jus...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• May 18, 2022

For Hidradenitis Suppurativa "Humira quite literally degraded my quality of life horribly. Seven years since I stopped taking it. It ruined my body. Days where my feet have felt like they're going to shatter from joint pain, my lymphatic system is crap now, I've developed lipedema and lipolymphedema, psoriasis, rapid decline in vision since stopping it. My joints in my hands swell and throb like my grandma's did in her 90s. Headaches, strange skin irritation completely unrelated to anything known. They can't explain it. I'm in my early 40s now, but my body acts as if it's over 80. I was told that 40 years from when taking it, there's an extremely high chance that I will get cancer. The small amount of relief Humira provides is not worth the quality of life that was sacrificed in the promises they claim Humira offers. The headaches, the pain and zapped feeling for 3 to 5 days after each injection was for what? The body of someone in their 80s since they were in their 30s. DON'T BUY INTO THE HUMIRA HYPE! PLEASE!"

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 25, 2012

For Psoriasis "I have been on Humira for over 4 months now with minimal results. I now have psoriasis in places I never had it before. So my doctor just took me off Humira and I am now going to try Enbrel. Sometimes what works for one person does not work for everyone. I sure miss the methotrexate, it was great for 3 years, but I cannot take it anymore due to it messing up my bone marrow, which is finally starting to go back to normal after 6 months. Good luck, everyone."

• Sic...
• September 17, 2015

For Ulcerative Colitis "I was put on Humira on June 10, 2015, for severe to moderate ulcerative colitis. I, in total, received 7 injections (including the four injections and then two injections at once for the startup). On July 5, I woke up with severe stiffness and pain throughout my entire body. I called my doctor and was advised to drink a lot of water and take a couple of Tylenol. I didn't listen and googled my symptoms. After testing with another doctor, I was diagnosed with drug-induced lupus. In addition to this, I lost about 35-40% of my hair, developed psoriasis all over my face, legs, and chest, and developed pins and needles feelings in both feet and legs. Take this med ONLY when you are willing to suffer these side effects because they can/do happen."

• Hum...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• July 21, 2016

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "I had exactly the same thing happen to me as Jayall and Jall did. No breathing problems or skin problems prior, but on my seventh injection, I got deathly ill with pneumonia, 2 weeks in the hospital with different antibiotics and antifungal. Had lung fluid drained, now have scar tissue and COPD and psoriasis. Was and still on methotrexate and plaquenil and Orencia IV now. Joint pain not better after six months IV, just upped IV dosage, hoping for some relief. Humira made things extremely worse for me but may work for others."

• mja...
• March 30, 2021

For Crohn's Disease "I used Humira for Crohn's for 6 months. I quit taking it after I started having involuntary muscle movements in my right arm, which came out of nowhere. Shortly thereafter, I had a stroke, leaving me with no peripheral vision to the left from both eyes. I have neuropathy to where I am numb (as if you'd sat on the floor on your foot and it fell asleep). I would go to point at something, and my arm would not let me point at what I wanted to and would move on its own, almost in a 'palsy' like movement. Since then, I now encounter psoriasis that I never had before. I also have skin growths on my legs similar to tags, but flat, and they're increasing in number over the years. I tried to file a complaint with poison control and the FDA, and they'll take no action against big pharma... follow the money, of which I have none. I would avoid this medication at all costs."

• dot...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 1, 2018

For Hidradenitis Suppurativa "Took Humira for five months. At first, things were promising, but then it seemed to have no effect at all. Now off it for 2 months and have psoriasis, which I never had before - I was taking it for Hidradenitis Suppurativa. A big regret taking this drug."

• Fit...
• February 14, 2018

For Ankylosing Spondylitis "I took Humira for about 20 months. I was taken off it at my doctor's recommendation. I have developed psoriasis from this drug. Thanks, Humira. While on the drug, I still had stiffness, and I actually feel the same, if not better, now that I am Humira-free. Experienced headaches and extreme fatigue while on Humira, too. Presently just on Sulindac and feel so much better. The drug is outrageously expensive, and the Complete plan covers most. The company called me about nine times in regards to 2018 and checking my insurance plan. Interesting that they have not inquired as to why I am not taking the drug anymore. Perhaps they don’t want to add my Humira side effects to updated stats. Be careful what you put into your body!!"

• Rae...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 23, 2019

For Hidradenitis Suppurativa "I started this medication in September 2019 for severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), which in a month was clear, but then I got psoriasis all over my body from it. I got pustular psoriasis on my hands and feet, and I got plaque psoriasis all over my torso, legs, back, and scalp. My doctors are so shocked, I’ve never been more depressed in my life. I think I’d rather deal with HS than deal with the constant itching and peeling. My feet have peeled a good 4 layers of skin. My doctor has now started me on phototherapy to my whole body with extra time to hands and feet. I have seen no improvement. Topical steroids (Kenalog), antibiotics - Clindamycin, nothing works. I think it’s best I stop Humira, but my doctors don’t think so."

• Rae...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 23, 2019

For Hidradenitis Suppurativa "I started this medication in September 2019 for severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), which in a month was clear, but then I got psoriasis all over my body from it. I got pustular psoriasis on my hands and feet, and I got plaque psoriasis all over my torso, legs, back, and scalp. My doctors are so shocked, I’ve never been more depressed in my life. I think I’d rather deal with HS than deal with the constant itching and peeling. My feet have peeled a good 4 layers of skin. My doctor has now started me on phototherapy to my whole body with extra time to hands and feet. I have seen no improvement. Topical steroids (Kenalog), antibiotics - Clindamycin, nothing works. I think it’s best I stop Humira, but my doctors don’t think so."

• Hum...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• June 21, 2019

For Ulcerative Colitis "I was on Humira for 12 months before being hospitalized with a serious opportunistic infection caused by Humira. At the same time, I developed 3 types of psoriasis, which a dermatologist has confirmed in writing is a paradoxical medical condition caused by Humira. As a result, I have lost 50 percent of my hair, as the scalp psoriasis is so bad. It is also difficult to walk due to severe pustular psoriasis on the soles of my feet. I am a 48-year-old female, and this drug has been devastating for me. Please think very carefully before taking this awful drug, as the potential side effects are horrific."

• Hum...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• June 21, 2019

For Ulcerative Colitis "I was on Humira for 12 months before being hospitalized with a serious opportunistic infection caused by Humira. At the same time, I developed 3 types of psoriasis, which a dermatologist has confirmed in writing is a paradoxical medical condition caused by Humira. As a result, I have lost 50 percent of my hair, as the scalp psoriasis is so bad. It is also difficult to walk due to severe pustular psoriasis on the soles of my feet. I am a 48-year-old female, and this drug has been devastating for me. Please think very carefully before taking this awful drug, as the potential side effects are horrific."

• caz...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 29, 2017

For Crohn's Disease "Although this medication does work for my minor Crohn's symptoms, the side effects are concerning. Diagnosed last year during a routine ultrasound for an unrelated issue. Never sick a day in my life before then. Never had taken any prescription medication in the prior 53 years. Since taking this drug, 3 bad colds, 2 bladder infections, 1 prostate infection, and now a Candida yeast infection (major rash) and signs of psoriasis. Glad it does help some people, but I think suppressing the immune system is very risky. Now looking for a 'milder' drug or alternative treatments."

• Do...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 8, 2018

For Crohn's Disease "I have been diagnosed with Crohn's since 2012 but had the symptoms from childhood, just never looked into it until it was affecting my job and daily life. I tried many drugs just to get side effects and no relief, but Humira was by far the worst ever. I developed HPV and had to have my cervix cauterized, and psoriasis so bad my hair was falling out in clumps and pustules on my feet and hands that itched and hurt so bad, and my tattoos were just red globs. My appearance was so bad, and I felt so horrible I seriously considered suicide. I stopped the Humira ASAP and took oregano oil, and it cleared up the psoriasis immediately, and I detoxed with charcoal and bentonite clay. I haven't taken any prescription drugs since. My doctor is pushing another biologic, Stelara, I fear for my life. My doctor is trying to kill me. I have far worse side effects than any pain my Crohn's gives me. Apple cider vinegar does wonders for me also, mixed with honey and hot water and lemon."

• DEB...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 13, 2018

For Hidradenitis Suppurativa "I read Jen H.'s comment, and she is right, this medicine sucks! I too developed a very bad rash, and after months of different diagnoses and biopsies, they think that the medication caused 'pustular psoriasis,' which I'm not sure they are sure. My whole life is messed up, and I don't know what to do!"

• Eri...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 22, 2023

For Plaque Psoriasis "Not the best experience. After a few months of using Humira, I had to have my knee drained 3 times, typically after an injection. My psoriasis moved under my nails for the first time in 30 years. My body is covered in cysts on my back and on the side of my arms. None is noticeable, just to the touch. I wouldn't take it again even if I was paid."

• Mis...
• January 15, 2016

For Crohn's Disease, Maintenance "This seems to have kept my Crohn's under control for periods at a time. But I realize, especially after reviewing others' experiences, that I have developed psoriasis due to the Humira. It is so bad now all over my scalp, I have a lot of hair loss. It's all about weighing things up, I know, but now my skin is reacting to my ileostomy bag. I have no choice but to stop it. My skin reacts to anything. What a shame. It seems this drug suits many people, but also completely doesn't work for many others."

• Des...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• November 3, 2013

For Psoriatic Arthritis "First time on Humira was like a miracle. My arthritis was minimal, and my psoriasis too, but I felt 'finally a cure,' and it cleared everything up. After taking Humira for 2 years, I missed 1 month of shots (had it in the freezer by mistake). I thought it would be okay, however, my psoriasis came back worse than ever. I went back on Humira hoping everything will clear again, and it hasn't, so now I'm in a limbo again. Should I stay or should I stop? Has anyone experienced this, and if so, what have you done? PLEASE HELP."

• Gem...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 23, 2018

For Psoriasis "I have both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. My dermatologist prescribed Humira after other things didn't work. Unfortunately, Humira not only made my psoriasis worse, it made my psoriatic arthritis worse."

• Tra...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• May 2, 2020

For Hidradenitis Suppurativa "In fairness, when I started Humira, I took it for 9 months, was still having flares here and there, so I thought it wasn't working. So together with my dermatologist, I decided to come off it! Bad idea. In those 2 months after, I was hardly fit to move, so I requested to go back on it. I've been on it now again since January 2018, and it's given me my life back. I did develop pustular psoriasis, but with creams, I have that under control. I can live with that to have a normal life again. I still flare the odd time, but it goes in about a day!"

• Son...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 13, 2017

For Psoriasis "I had one shot for PSA, psoriasis, and it looks like I have gotten stung by a thousand bees, and my psoriasis is worse six weeks after my shot. Needless to say, I did not get the second shot. Worst drug reaction that I have ever had."

• Man...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• March 3, 2018

For Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis "My daughter, who is 11, was on Humira for a year. She has now developed psoriasis, and her nails have crumbled and fallen off. More worryingly, though, her legs are twitching all the time, her joints are all swollen, and she is struggling to walk and is in severe pain. I am terrified that she has neurological damage caused by the Humira and muscle weakness. She is waiting for joint injections. I spoke to rheumatologists who dismissed it and said it wasn't due to Humira. Could someone please advise me if they gave nerve damage due to Humira? My poor daughter has been off school for months and has no social life now."

• Kel...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• August 20, 2017

For Crohn's Disease "It took doctors years to diagnose me with moderate to severe Crohn's. I've been on Humira for 8 months now, and I feel the best that I have ever felt. I rarely get sick, and I have more energy to keep up with my active lifestyle. The only side effect was that I got two very small marks of psoriasis, which were gone within a couple of days. So far, so good for me."