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Does Humira make you feel tired?

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

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Fatigue is not a common side effect of Humira (adalimumab). However, if you feel unusually tired, it could be a sign of an underlying issue, such as:

  • Infection – Humira weakens the immune system, increasing infection risk.
  • Liver problems – Though rare, Humira may affect liver function, which can cause fatigue.

Additionally, Humira is used to treat conditions that themselves can cause fatigue, such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis.

Common Side Effects of Humira

The most common side effects of Humira are:

  • Infections (e.g., colds, sinus infections)
  • Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, pain)
  • Headache
  • Rash

If you experience persistent or bothersome symptoms, speak with your healthcare provider.

What Conditions Does Humira Treat?

Humira is the brand name for the medication adalimumab. It is approved for several autoimmune diseases, including:

  • Ankylosing Spondylitis
  • Crohn's disease
  • Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
  • Plaque Psoriasis
  • Psoriatic arthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Ulcerative colitis
  • Uveitis

It is also FDA approved to treat a chronic inflammatory skin condition called hidradenitis suppurativa.

When to Contact Your Doctor

If fatigue is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like fever, yellowing skin, or dark urine, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

References
  1. U.S. National Library of Medicine DailyMed. Humira. February 2021. Available at: https://www.dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=608d4f0d-b19f-46d3-749a-7159aa5f933d [Accessed June 10, 2022].
  2. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease. Overview of the Immune System. December 30, 2013. Available at: https://www.niaid.nih.gov/research/immune-system-overview [Accessed June 8, 2022].

Read next

How much does Humira cost without insurance?

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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