Adalimumab

Adalimumab is used to help reduce symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions that affect the joints, spine, or digestive system. Some of the conditions that it is used to treat include rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ankylosing spondylitis. The medication comes in an injectable form that is administered just under the skin, usually once a week or every other week. Possible side effects include infections, pain at the injection site, and headaches.

Adalimumab (Humira)

What Is Adalimumab?

Adalimumab (Humira^®) is a prescription medication approved to treat several inflammatory conditions that affect the joints, spine, and digestive system.

Who Makes It?

Adalimumab is made by Abbott Pharmaceuticals.

What Is Adalimumab Used For?

Specific uses of adalimumab include reducing the signs and symptoms of the following conditions:

Ankylosing spondylitis
Crohn's disease
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (also known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis)
Plaque psoriasis
Psoriatic arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis.

(Click What Is Adalimumab Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)

How Does It Work?

Adalimumab is part of a class of medicines known as tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, or TNF inhibitors for short. As the name of the drug class implies, adalimumab blocks the activity of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). TNF-alpha is a naturally occurring chemical in the body that is involved in inflammation and other immune system functions.

People with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, plaque psoriasis, ankylosing spondylitis, or Crohn's disease often have higher levels of TNF. These high levels can cause inflammation and lead to problems. By blocking TNF-alpha, adalimumab helps relieve the symptoms of these conditions and, in some cases, prevents future damage from occurring. However, the medication does not cure these conditions.

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