Common, Mild, and Potential Severe Effects of Humira (Adalimumab) Treatment
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Humira, a brand-name injectable biologic medication, is commonly used to treat various inflammatory conditions such as Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and plaque psoriasis. While it can bring relief, it's crucial to be aware of its potential side effects and risks.
Before starting Humira, you will undergo tests for tuberculosis (TB) and hepatitis B virus (HBV). This is to ensure that any pre-existing conditions are identified and managed. Conditions and factors to consider include active infection, heart failure, liver damage, nervous system problems, hepatitis B, cancer, recent vaccination, latex allergy or allergic reaction, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
It's essential to note that Humira can increase your risk of serious bacterial, fungal, and viral infections, including TB. During treatment, your doctor will monitor you for symptoms of infections. If you develop symptoms such as fever, persistent cough, or flu-like symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Cancers have been reported in people receiving Humira, including lymphomas (cancers of the white blood cells). Long-term side effects may include the growth of new cancers and the growth of existing tumors, although these are rare. If you notice any unusual lumps or growths, discuss them with your doctor.
Humira may cause liver problems, including liver damage and sudden liver failure, but these are rare. Symptoms of liver problems can include abdominal pain, jaundice, loss of appetite, vomiting, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor right away.
Humira may increase your risk for developing certain types of skin cancer, although this is also rare. If you have questions about drinking alcohol while receiving Humira, talk with your doctor.
In addition to these risks, Humira may cause side effects such as headache, injection site reactions, rash, and upper respiratory infections. Injection site pain and reactions occur in some patients; pain severity can vary and may influence adherence.
If you develop symptoms of hepatitis B reactivation, talk with your doctor right away. Symptoms of hepatitis B reactivation can include muscle aches, jaundice, reduced or no appetite, fatigue, upset stomach, dark-colored urine, or clay-coloured stool.
It's important to remember that while Humira can have serious side effects, these are rare. If you develop serious side effects while receiving Humira, call your doctor right away.
Humira has boxed warnings, the most serious warning from the FDA. This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your doctor.
In conclusion, Humira can be an effective treatment for various inflammatory conditions, but it's crucial to be aware of its potential risks and side effects. Always consult with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
- AbbVie manufactures Humira, a medication used for treating Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis.
- Before starting Humira, tests for tuberculosis and hepatitis B virus are necessary to identify any pre-existing conditions.
- Conditions to consider include active infection, heart failure, liver damage, nervous system problems, hepatitis B, cancer, recent vaccination, latex allergy, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
- Humira can raise the risk of serious bacterial, fungal, and viral infections, including anthrax, and your doctor will monitor you for symptoms.
- It has been reported that people receiving Humira can develop lymphomas, a type of cancer, and existing tumors may grow.
- Liver problems, such as liver damage and sudden liver failure, are rare side effects of Humira, and symptoms can include abdominal pain and jaundice.
- The medication may increase the risk of certain types of skin cancer, and symptoms of skin conditions like psoriasis may worsen.
- Humira may cause side effects like headache, injection site reactions, rash, and upper respiratory infections.
- Injections site pain and reactions can influence adherence to the medication, with pain severity varying among patients.
- If you experience symptoms of hepatitis B reactivation, such as muscle aches or jaundice, discuss them with your doctor immediately.
- While Humira can have serious side effects, these are rare, and it's important to consult your doctor if you develop such complications.
- The medication carries boxed warnings from the FDA, meaning it should not be used if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health.
- In addition to monitoring for potential side effects, it's essential to maintain healthy digestive health, chronic diseases management, and skin care to manage autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
- Lastly, always consult with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about starting, stopping, or adjusting Humira treatment for your specific medical-conditions and chronic diseases.