How long can you stay on Humira?
Humira (adalimumab) is considered a maintenance (long-term) medication. Your doctor will assess you at regular intervals to be sure staying on Humira is appropriate for you. Based on your antiinflammatory response, your treatment length may differ from other patients. Do not stop taking Humira unless your doctor tells you to stop.
Humira is a biologic drug used to treat many different autoimmune-types of diseases where inflammation leads to symptoms such as in rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, plaque psoriasis, adults and pediatric ulcerative colitis, and psoriatic arthritis. Humira will not cure these diseases but can help to relieve your symptoms and control your disease worsening.
Always follow your doctor's instructions about when and how often to use Humira. Your dose for Humira can also vary and depends on the condition being treated. However, many patients stay on Humira for years.
In some cases, your doctor may decide to lower your dose or stop your treatment all together. In a study of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, researchers found that discontinuation of a biologic should not be attempted unless your doctor regularly assesses your activity, sets a treatment goal, and reinstates your medication if needed.
What is the mechanism of action for Humira?
Humira from AbbVie is a biologic injectable protein known as a monoclonal antibody. It's classified as a Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) alpha inhibitor, and binds to and blocks the action of TNF in your body to lower inflammation.
Humira is given as a self-administered subcutaneous injection (under the skin). Because TNF blockers like Humira affect the immune system, they can lower the ability to fight infections.
The most common side effects seen with Humira in clinical trials include upper respiratory tract infections, injection site reactions, headache and rash.
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Bottom Line
- Humira (adalimumab) is a medication that is used over the long-term. Your doctor will check your medication at regular intervals to be sure staying on Humira is appropriate for you.
- Your dose for Humira can also vary and depends on the condition being treated. However, many patients stay on Humira for many years.
- Your treatment length may differ from other patients. Do not stop taking Humira unless your doctor tells you to stop.
This is not all the information you need to know about Humira (adalimumab) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of talking to your doctor about your treatment. Review the full Humira information here, and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.
References
- Humira Injection [package insert]. North Chicago, IL: AbbVie Inc. Accessed March 8, 2021 at https://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/humira.pdf
- Verhoef LM, van den Bemt BJF, van der Maas A, et al. Downâtitration and discontinuation strategies of tumour necrosis factor–blocking agents for rheumatoid arthritis in patients with low disease activity. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2019, Issue 5. CD010455. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD010455.pub3
Read next
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
How long does it take for Humira to work?
Most patients will start to feel relief from their symptoms within 2 to 12 weeks. Your results will vary based on your condition being treated and other factors, such as tolerability to treatment and other medications you may be using. Continue reading
How long can Humira be out of the fridge?
If you are traveling or not able to keep your Humira in the refrigerator, you can store it at room temperature up to a maximum of 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) for a period of up to 14 days. Once your Humira Pen or prefilled syringe has reached room temperature, it must be used within 14 days even if it is put back in the refrigerator. Continue reading
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Drug information
- Humira Information for Consumers
- Humira prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Humira (detailed)
- Humira user reviews (698)
Related support groups
- Humira (69 questions, 370 members)