Humira (Adalimumab) Rheumatology

Humira (Adalimumab)
Rheumatology
Patient Information Leaflet
Originator: K Douglas/S Petford/S Mole
Date: Sept 2011
Version: 1
Date for Review: Sept 2014
DGOH Ref No: DGOH/PIL/00385
Contact numbers
If your have any questions or are unsure about any of the
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Russells Hall Hospital Tel 01384 244789.
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If you develop an infection whilst taking Humira or symptoms of an
infection (e.g. high temperature, flu like symptoms, diarrhoea and
vomiting) you should stop taking Humira until the symptoms have
cleared or you have seen a doctor.
If you have any worries or queries about your medication contact
the Rheumatology Helpline on 01384 244789 or your pharmacist.
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Can I receive Humira if I am planning to start
a family?
You should take contraceptive precautions whilst receiving this
treatment. It is recommended that you stop taking Humira at least 6
months prior to conceiving. Women who are pregnant or are
planning to become pregnant, and those who are breast-feeding,
should not receive Humira.
Can I drink alcohol whilst receiving Humira?
It is recommended that you adhere to the national guidelines for
alcohol consumption.
Do I need to take any other precautions?
It is recommended that you have a Pneumonia Vaccine prior to
starting Humira this is then repeated between 5-10 years. It is also
advisable to have an annual Flu Jab.
Welcome to the Dudley Group of Hospitals department of
Rheumatology. This leaflet will provide you with information
regarding what to expect when taking Humira medication.
What is Humira?
Humira is a type of medication that has been specifically designed
to treat inflammatory arthritis, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) or
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA). It is in the group of drugs called
Anti-Tumour Necrosis Factor (Anti-TNF) therapies. This medication
has been proven to greatly reduce the symptoms and signs of
Rheumatoid and Psoriatic arthritis. Humira has been widely used in
the UK, and throughout the world, for almost a decade for the
treatment of moderately severe RA or PsA, when standard
treatments have not worked adequately.
There are some situations where the drug may not be suitable for
patients. These will be discussed with you in detail but include:
Repeated infections
You should avoid live vaccines; these include polio and Rubella
(German measles) vaccines.
Previous untreated tuberculosis (TB)
Some cancers within the past 10 years
Always let your doctor know that you are receiving Humira before
having a vaccination.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Some severe forms of heart or lung disease
Pregnancy or breast feeding
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If you have any concerns that any other condition that you suffer
from may be important please discuss this with your rheumatologist
or specialist nurse.
How will I take Humira?
Humira is given as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection once
every fortnight.
How long will it take for Humira to work?
Other mild side effects that you may experience include headache,
runny nose, rash, upset and painful stomach, diarrhoea or
increased cough. It is always advisable to advice your doctor or
nurse of any side effects however mild they may be.
Most people notice a response fairly quickly, often within the first
two weeks of treatment. Full effect of the drug can take up to 3
months.
Do I need any special tests while receiving
Humira?
Can I inject myself?
There are no specific blood tests required whilst you are on Humira
but you will need to attend regular hospital appointments to ensure
that you are responding without developing any side effects.
Most patients choose to give their own injections or get a carer or
partner to inject them; your doctor or nurse will provide further
information and training on how to do this.
Will I have any side effects?
All medicines can cause side effects, although most patients will
never experience any. Probably the main risk is of infection. The
risk of a serious infection is about 1 in 50 patients treated each
year. The risk may be higher in those who are more prone to
infections eg Diabetic patients and this should be discussed with
your doctor or Rheumatologist.
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However the most common side effects include mild reaction at the
injection site. Itching, soreness, redness, swelling or pain around
the injection site is the most common, though this reaction is mild
and usually settles down.
Your doctor may take blood samples as part of your routine check
up which are normally done every 4 weeks.
Can I take other medicines with Humira?
Although no specific interactions have been noted with Humira to
date, you should tell your doctor about any other medications that
you are taking, including over the counter preparations.
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