Some key information on Humira (Adalimumab)
It can be overwhelming to manage a medical condition like arthritis, let alone having to learn about medications like Humira (Adalimumab).
Fortunately, you don’t have to look far to get information about the medication on your eScript. The medical review team at Chemist2U is here to explain how it works, its restrictions, and more. Read on to get more details before placing your order for home delivery.
In this article
How does Humira (Adalimumab) work?
Humira (Adalimumab) works as an antibody that’s designed to target and neutralise foreign particles in the body.[1] Particularly, it binds to tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), a protein that’s found at high levels when an individual has inflammatory diseases or conditions.[2] It is used to prevent further irreversible damage to the joints while potentially providing relief from swelling, stiffness, and pain.[3]
Additionally, Humira (Adalimumab) is classified as an immunosuppressive medication. This is similar to how Stelara (Ustekinumab) works, as it also targets proteins that may lead to chronic inflammation in certain individuals.
How do you take Humira (Adalimumab)?
Humira (Adalimumab) is taken via injection under the skin, with users following any specialised instructions provided by their doctor. The dosage and frequency of administration will depend on your condition and age.
First, through the window, see whether the liquid is clear and colourless, and on the fill line. Next, select your injection site – either on the front of your thighs or the lower part of your abdomen – avoiding any point within a five-centimetre radius of your navel.
Keep in mind that your doctor may recommend that you rotate your injection spot, moving each new one around three centimetres away from the last used spot. This is to help minimise any potential discomfort and skin reactions from the needle.
Before injecting, clean the chosen area with an alcohol swab in a circular motion. When handling the pen, avoid touching the caps and grasp it using the middle base instead. Then, once you remove the caps, ensure that the needle cover comes off with the grey cap. The pen is now activated, and you can press it firmly against your skin at a 90-degree angle. Finally, push the activator button to deliver the injection.[4]
To store Humira (Adalimumab) properly, keep it in the carton to protect it from the light and inside a refrigerator at a temperature that ranges from 2°C to 8°C. Do not put it in the freezer.
It’s important not to stop taking the medicine or change the dosage without consulting your doctor first.
Who can take Humira (Adalimumab)?
Humira (Adalimumab) is typically prescribed as an arthritis treatment or autoimmune medication for those who are experiencing inflammatory disease symptoms.
This may include individuals who have:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Psoriasis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Uveitis
- Hidradenitis suppurativa
- Crohn’s disease[5]
It is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of conditions, and a doctor may prescribe this medication for other reasons.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, inform your doctor beforehand so you can discuss the risks involved. Humira (Adalimumab) should only be used by pregnant women if clearly needed. If taken during pregnancy, it may heighten the risk of infection for the baby.
It may be taken by children, but it’s recommended that they be up-to-date with all vaccinations and supported by good nutrition. It’s important to note that the long-term effect of Humira (Adalimumab) on children’s growth is not known.
The medication may be taken by individuals over the age of 65, but there is a higher risk of infection.
Side effects of Humira (Adalimumab)
Common side effects could include irritation at the injection site, such as pain or swelling. You may also experience headaches, nausea, and coughs. You may be having an allergic reaction if you experience skin rashes, shortness of breath, swelling of the feet, and paleness. Humira (Adalimumab) may also cause serious side effects such as weight loss, fever, and fatigue.[6]
Should any of the common side effects persist or cause discomfort, do not hesitate to contact your doctor. In addition to this, if you experience any of the more serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately.
Humira (Adalimumab) and other medications
Similar to other prescription medicines, Humira (Adalimumab) has interactions with certain medications that could potentially affect the way it functions. Similarly, Humira (Adalimumab) may also impact the way these drugs work.
It’s very important to inform your doctor of all of the supplements, vitamins, and other medicines you’re taking or have recently taken before starting on Humira (Adalimumab). They may adjust the dosage and recommendations for the safest and most effective treatment.
Medicines you should not use with Humira (Adalimumab)
Combining Humira (Adalimumab) with drugs like anakinra or abatacept is not advised by doctors due to a heightened risk of infection.
Typically, it is also not recommended to take Humira (Adalimumab) alongside other biologic treatments. This includes disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and other TNF-α inhibitors due to the risk of infection.[7] Examples of DMARDS include methotrexate, leflunomide, hydroxychloroquine, and sulfasalazine, while TNF-α includes etanercept, certolizumab pegol, and infliximab.
Humira (Adalimumab), which blocks cytokines, could affect how CYP450 enzymes work. For individuals who are taking drugs that are closely regulated and depend on these enzymes (these drugs include amiodarone, amitriptyline, and fluvoxamine), your doctor may make adjustments with the dosage.
Additionally, doctors may also guide you away from taking any type of live vaccine, like measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), while on Humira (Adalimumab). This is because the interaction between the two may affect the efficacy of the vaccine and the risk of getting a severe infection whilst immunocompromised.[8]
How to order Humira (Adalimumab) through Chemist2U
Chemist2U has a mission to make medicine easy. Here, you can simply start by navigating this website or downloading our user-friendly app.
You can then upload your prescriptions online and perhaps go through our extensive selection of over-the-counter products afterwards. As such, you can add any necessary products to your cart, just as if you were in a physical pharmacy, so you won’t have to waste time looking for a ‘chemist near me’.
Once your order is finalised, a trusted pharmacist in your area will carefully prepare and dispense your medications and items.
We cover multiple metros and major regional areas across Australia. To enjoy same-day delivery directly from the chemist to your doorstep, order before the cutoff. What’s more, should you have any general questions about medications like Humira (Adalimumab), you can always use our Ask a Pharmacist feature for more information.
Order home delivery at Chemist2U today.
Same-day delivery is available with the majority of medications; simply ensure that you place your order before the cutoff time, which is typically 2.00 p.m. but may vary in some locations.
Note: A minority of products (inc. Ozempic and Mounjaro) are delivered via AusPost. Allow 5-7 business days.
References
[1] https://humira.co.nz/how-humira-works/
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18161752/
[3] https://www.humira.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/how-humira-works-for-ra
[4] https://www.humira.com/content/dam/humira/global/documents/pdf/humirapen_PIL.pdf
[5] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines/brand/amt,4142011000036107/humira
[6] https://media.healthdirect.org.au/medicines/GuildLink_Information/285904/CMI/vechumix10422.pdf
