Uses of Adalimumab: An Overview
Adalimumab (
Humira®) is a prescription medication licensed to treat certain inflammatory conditions that affect the joints, spine, or
digestive system. Specific adalimumab uses include the treatment of:
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is an
autoimmune disease that causes painful arthritis of the spine. In people with this condition, the immune system functions abnormally and begins to attack the spine. This results in pain and stiffness, especially in the lower back. Other
ankylosing spondylitis symptoms may include changes in vision and possible problems with the heart, lungs, or digestive system.
Adalimumab is approved to reduce the signs and symptoms of active ankylosing spondylitis.
Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD. There are several different types of IBD, with Crohn's disease and
ulcerative colitis being the most common. They all cause chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. Although much research is underway,
Crohn's disease causes are not well understood.
Depending on how serious your condition is, your doctor may recommend one or more different treatments. These
Crohn's disease treatment options include:
Although adalimumab is not a
Crohn's cure, it is approved to reduce the signs and symptoms of the disease and to maintain remission.
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Juvenile idiopathic (or rheumatoid) arthritis is a form of arthritis that begins in childhood. In juvenile idiopathic arthritis, the immune system begins to attack the body (including the joints), causing pain. Other juvenile idiopathic
arthritis symptoms include:
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Unexplained rashes
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Fever
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Swollen joints
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Tiredness.
Adalimumab is approved to reduce the signs and symptoms of moderate to severe polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis in children age four and older. "Polyarticular" means that the arthritis affects five or more joints.
Plaque Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a fairly common condition of the skin and joints.
Psoriasis causes problems because the immune system attacks the skin and joints.
Symptoms of psoriasis include scaly patches, or plaques, on the skin, especially near the elbows and knees.
Adalimumab is used for treating plaque psoriasis in adults (over age 18) with moderate or severe chronic plaque psoriasis.
