Managing Autoimmune Disorders with Humira
Systemic rheumatic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and juvenile inflammatory arthritis are long-term autoimmune conditions that cause joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and damage. Although these conditions differ in detail, they share a common problem—chronic inflammation, especially in and around joints.1
As a result, many of these diseases respond to similar types of treatments. Traditional medications, known as DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs)—such as methotrexate, leflunomide, sulfasalazine, and hydroxychloroquine—have been used for years. However, in recent decades, biologic therapies have transformed treatment for many patients.1
One such breakthrough biologic is Humira.
What conditions does Humira treat?
- Humira is used to treat several autoimmune and inflammatory diseases2:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – joint inflammation and pain
- Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) – joint inflammation with red, scaly skin patches
- Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and axial spondyloarthritis – spine and back inflammation
- Plaque psoriasis – red, scaly skin lesions
- Crohn’s disease – inflammation of the digestive tract
- Ulcerative colitis – ulcers and inflammation in the colon
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis – arthritis in children
- Enthesitis-related arthritis – inflammation where tendons attach to bones
- Hidradenitis suppurativa – painful skin lumps and abscesses
- Non-infectious uveitis – inflammation inside the eye
Humira is generally prescribed when a condition is moderate to severe, or when other treatments have not worked well enough.2
How does Humira work?
Humira contains adalimumab, a monoclonal antibody designed to target and block a protein in your body called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). This protein plays a key role in causing inflammation in autoimmune diseases.2
By blocking TNF-α, Humira helps reduce swelling, pain, and damage in affected tissues—whether it's the joints, skin, gut, or eyes.2
How is Humira given? Dosage and administration
Humira is given as a subcutaneous injection—meaning it’s injected just under the skin, usually in the thigh or stomach area.3
- Receive an injection once every two weeks.3
- Children receive a dose based on their body weight and condition.3
After training by a healthcare provider, patients or caregivers can learn to self-inject Humira at home using pre-filled syringes or pens. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and ask for help if you're unsure.
Before you start: Important pre-treatment checks
Before starting Humira, the doctor will:
- Check for infections, especially tuberculosis (TB) or hepatitis B
- Possibly order blood tests to check immune status
- Evaluate heart health, as Humira is not recommended for patients with moderate to severe heart failure
Do not take Humira if you have an active infection, untreated TB, or are allergic to any of its ingredients.
Side effects: What you might experience3
Like all medicines, Humira can cause side effects—though not everyone gets them.
Common side effects (affecting more than 1 in 10 people):
- Cough, cold, or sinus infections
- Pain, swelling, redness, or itching at the injection site
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain
Less common but serious risks:
- Serious infections (e.g., TB, pneumonia, or fungal infections)
- Blood cancers such as lymphoma (rare)
- Liver problems
- Nerve issues, including numbness or tingling
- Autoimmune reactions like lupus-like syndrome
- Rare skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Always report any unusual symptoms to your doctor right away. If you develop fever, unexplained bruising, vision changes, or severe fatigue, seek medical help immediately.
Using and storing Humira correctly
To keep Humira effective and safe3:
- Store in a refrigerator (2°C–8°C). Do not freeze.
- Let it come to room temperature before injecting (takes ~15–30 minutes).
- Do not shake the prefilled syringe or pen.
- Dispose of used pens/syringes in a proper special container.
Never use Humira past the expiration date or if the liquid looks cloudy or contains particles.3
Humira vs. other biologics: How does it compare?
There are several biologics available today, including etanercept (Enbrel), infliximab (Remicade), golimumab (Simponi), and certolizumab (Cimzia)—many of which also target TNF-α.4
Compared to other biologics:
- Humira is widely used for a broad range of inflammatory conditions.3
- It can be self-administered at home, which is convenient for many.3
- It may be more suitable for certain diseases like uveitis or hidradenitis suppurativa, where other biologics may not be indicated.3
However, the choice of biologic depends on many factors—your condition, past response to treatments, convenience, cost, and side effect profile. Your doctor will help you decide what’s best for you.
Getting Humira in India through the Named Patient Program (NPP)
Humira is not yet widely available across all pharmacies in India. However, patients can access it through the Rx4U Named Patient Program (NPP), which allows individuals to legally obtain medicines that are approved abroad but not yet registered in India.
How to Access Humira Through the NPP
To access Humira through the NPP, patients typically need:
1. A valid prescription from a specialist (e.g., rheumatologist, gastroenterologist, or dermatologist)
2. Medical records showing your diagnosis
3. An import license from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization
4. Funding or proof of payment, which may come from personal sources or support from NGOs, patient foundations, or crowdfunding
Rx4U help with every step—from paperwork to delivery to cold-chain logistics.
Summary: Using Humira Safely
- Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully
- Get screened for TB and other infections before starting
- Report side effects early
- Store and inject correctly
- Stay up to date with regular check-ups and blood tests during treatment
Humira has helped millions of people worldwide regain mobility, reduce inflammation, and live with less pain. With the right support, it can help you too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can Humira cure my disease?
A. No, Humira does not cure autoimmune diseases but helps control symptoms and slow disease progression.2
Q. Is it safe to take vaccines while on Humira?
A. Recommend to schedule vaccination before starting treatment with Humira.3
Q. Can pregnant women take Humira?
A. In some cases, yes—with close monitoring. Always talk to your doctor before planning a pregnancy or while breastfeeding.3
Q. What if I miss a dose?
A. Take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and resume your regular schedule. Don’t double up.3
Note:
The information provided is for education purpose only and is subjected to prescribing information of the drug and the guidance of your treating physician. Always consult your health care provider before making any medical decision for starting your treatment.
Disclaimer:
Rx4U procures prescribed medicines directly from manufacturers or authorized distributors. It does not claim ownership of any trademarks and complies with the provisions of the Trademark Act, 1999, particularly Sections 30 and 30(1) concerning ‘Fair Use’. It solely facilitates access to new launches through named patient import.
References:
- Reimold AM. The role of adalimumab in rheumatic and autoimmune disorders: comparison with other biologic agents. Open Access Rheumatol. 2012; 4:33-47.
- European Medicines Agency. Updated March 20, 2025. Accessed June 12, 2025. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/humira
- Product information. AbbVie Deutschland GmbH Co. KG
- Kukar M, Petryna O, Efthimiou P. Biological targets in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: a comprehensive review of current and in-development biological disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Biologics. 2009; 3:443-57.
