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Does Humira cause muscle spasms?

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

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Muscle spasms, cramps, aches, and weakness are rare side effects of Humira (adalimumab).

How Common Are Muscle-Related Side Effects?

In a clinical study:

  • Back pain was reported in 6% of patients taking Humira.
  • Muscle cramps were reported in less than 5% of patients.

Why Might Humira Cause Muscle Pain?

Humira works by blocking tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a protein involved in inflammation. In rare cases, TNF-α inhibitors like Humira can:

  • Disrupt cytokine balance, leading to muscle-related symptoms.
  • Trigger antinuclear antibodies (ANA), which may cause drug-induced lupus—a condition that can include muscle pain.

When to Contact Your Doctor

If you experience persistent muscle pain, weakness, or cramps, speak with your healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions.

References
  1. U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Humira. December 2018. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/125057s410lbl.pdf [Accessed June 9, 2022]
  2. Abbvie. Humira: Important Safety Information. 2021. Available at: https://www.humira.com/#isi-anchor [Accessed June 9, 2022]
  3. Gaboriau L, Davion J-B, Combret S, Lebrun-Vignes B, et al. Adalimumab and myositis: A case report and review of the French and international Pharmacovigilance Databases. Neuromuscular Disorders. 2020; 30(11):915-920. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nmd.2020.09.026
  4. Lomicová I, Suchý D, Pizinger K, Cetkovská P. A case of lupus-like syndrome in a patient receiving adalimumab and a brief review of the literature on drug-induced lupus erythematosus. J Clin Pharm Ther. 2017 Jun;42(3):363-366. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpt.12506

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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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