HUMIRA (ADALIMUMAB)

HUMIRA (ADALIMUMAB) is a medication used to treat various autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. The active ingredient in Humira is adalimumab, which is a type of biological therapy known as a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor.

The Humira 40mg injection contains 40 milligrams (mg) of adalimumab, the active ingredient. Adalimumab works by targeting and blocking the action of a protein called tumor necrosis factor-
alpha (TNF-alpha), which is involved in the inflammatory response in the body.

Some key details about Humira (ADALIMUMAB) injection:

n
1. Administration: Humira is given as a subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected under the skin. The injection is typically self- administered by the patient or a caregiver after proper training from a healthcare professional.
n

n
2. Dosage: The medication is available in various strengths, such as 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, or 80 mg. The dosage of Humira can vary depending on the specific condition being treated. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
nnnn
3. Injection Sites: Humira injections are usually given in the thigh or abdomen. However, your healthcare provider may provide specific instructions on the preferred injection site.
nnnn
4. Frequency: The frequency of Humira injections can vary depending on the condition being treated. For most conditions, the usual dosing schedule is once every other week. However, in some cases, a different dosing regimen may be recommended.
nnnn
5. Storage: Humira should be stored in a refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C). It should be kept in the original packaging and protected from light. Do not freeze Humira, and if accidentally frozen, it should be discarded.
nnnn
6. Preparation: Humira comes in pre-filled syringes or pre-filled pens. Before using it, you should allow the syringe or pen to reach room temperature. Do not shake the syringe or pen, as it may cause the
   medication to become foamy.
nnnn
7. Injection Technique: The exact injection technique may vary depending on the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Generally, you will need to clean the injection site with an alcohol swab, pinch the skin, and inject the medication at a 45 to 90-degree angle.
nnnn
8. Side Effects: Like any medication, Humira may cause side effects. Common side effects include injection site reactions (e.g., redness, swelling, itching), headache, upper respiratory infections, and
   gastrointestinal symptoms. It is important to discuss any concerns or side effects with your healthcare provider.
nnnn
9. Monitoring: While taking Humira, regular monitoring is typically required to assess its effectiveness and monitor for any potential side effects. Your healthcare provider may order blood tests or other evaluations as part of this monitoring.
nnnn
10. Missed Dose: If you forget to take your scheduled Humira dose, it is generally recommended to take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is already close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to
    make up for a missed one.
nnnn
11. Traveling: If you need to travel with Humira, you can keep it in a small cooler bag with ice packs to maintain the appropriate temperature. Avoid freezing the medication or exposing it to excessive heat.
n

Injection Technique:

When injecting Humira, it is generally recommended to follow these steps:

n
1. Choose an injection site: Common injection sites include the front of the thighs or the lower abdomen. Rotate injection sites with each dose to prevent injection site reactions.
nnnn
2. Prepare the injection site: Clean the chosen site with an alcohol swab and let it dry. Avoid areas with moles, scars, bruises, or areas that are tender, red, or hard.
nnnn
3. Prepare the injection device: Remove the cap from the pre-filled syringe or pen. Do not shake the device.
nnnn
4. Inject the medication: For the pre-filled syringe, pinch the skin at the chosen site and insert the needle at a 45 to 90-degree angle. Slowly push the plunger down to inject the medication. For the pre-filled pen, place the device on the chosen site at a 90-degree angle and press the injection button to initiate the injection.
nnnn
5. Complete the injection: Keep the needle in place for a few seconds after injecting the full dose. Then, carefully remove the needle and discard it in a sharps container.
n