Generic Adalimumab

Because adalimumab is considered a "biologic" medication, it is under different rules and laws than most other medications. As a result, generic adalimumab is not available and cannot be produced until these laws and rules are changed. Some companies on the Internet may claim to sell a generic version. However, these medications may not actually contain adalimumab and could be dangerous.

Generic Adalimumab: An Overview

Adalimumab (Humira®) is a prescription medication that is approved to treat several inflammatory conditions that affect the joints, spine, and digestive system.
 
Specific uses of adalimumab include reducing the signs and symptoms of the following conditions:
 
Adalimumab is manufactured by Abbott Pharmaceuticals. Technically, adalimumab is considered to be a "biologic," and is, therefore, under different rules and laws than most other medications. At this point, generic biologics, including generic adalimumab, are not allowed to be manufactured.
 
Yet, if you search the Internet for "generic adalimumab," you may find a number of companies selling it. The fact is that these medicines may be fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous. A generic version may be available from another country, but there is really no way of knowing if you are getting genuine adalimumab or not. Therefore, you should not buy any generic versions until an approved version is available.
 

When Will Generic Adalimumab Be Available?

This is a difficult question. Unless the laws and rules are changed, generic adalimumab may never be available. However, it is likely that these rules and laws will be changed in the future.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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