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What food should I avoid while taking Humira?

Medically reviewed by Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD. Last updated on March 25, 2025.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

There are no known food interactions with Humira (adalimumab) and food, so most patients can continue their normal diet. However, dietary needs may vary based on your medical condition. Always consult your doctor before making dietary changes.

Does Humira Affect Food Choices?

Studies have not been conducted to determine how Humira may or may not interact with foods. Humira is indicated for the treatment of several different conditions, and the dietary needs of patients taking Humira can vary depending on the individual patient and their condition. It’s important to ask your doctor if you’ll need to make changes to your diet before starting Humira.

While Humira itself does not interact with food, it can increase the risk of infections. To reduce this risk, you may need to take precautions, including:

  • Avoiding raw or undercooked animal products (e.g., eggs, meat, poultry, seafood)
  • Practicing proper food safety (e.g., washing hands, cooking food thoroughly)
  • Following general infection prevention measures (e.g., avoiding crowds, staying away from sick individuals)

Should I Adjust My Diet While on Humira?

Your dietary needs may depend on your specific condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, or psoriasis. Discuss with your doctor whether any dietary modifications are necessary for your treatment plan.

References
  1. National Health Service (UK). Common questions about adalimumab. March 24, 2022. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/adalimumab/common-questions-about-adalimumab/. [Accessed June 14, 2022]
  2. Abbvie. Humira: Frequently Asked Questions About Humira. Available at: https://www.humira.com/global/frequently-asked-questions. [Accessed June 14, 2022]
  3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). HUMIRA (adalimumab) injection, for subcutaneous use. August 2018. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/125057s406lbl.pdf. [Accessed June 14, 2022]

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The average cash price of Humira (generic name: adalimumab) without insurance is around $7,300 for 1 carton (2 pens) of 40 mg/0.4 mL using an online coupon, but most people do not pay this much. Your actual cost will depend upon which Humira product you need, your coupon savings, if you have insurance, and any manufacturer's savings. Continue reading

What happens when you stop taking Humira?

If you stop taking Humira. your medical condition may worsen. Withdrawal side effects are not likely to occur with Humira, but your signs or symptoms (based on your condition), like joint pain and inflammation, stomach pain or diarrhea, or structural joint damage may worsen or return. Do not stop taking Humira unless you and your doctor agree this is the best course of action. Continue reading

Does Humira cause weight gain or weight loss?

The manufacturer of Humira does not list weight gain or weight loss as a possible direct side effect associated Humira. However, other conditions, symptoms, or medications may affect your weight while you are using this medication. Clinical studies have also shown weight gain with Humira. Continue reading

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