Humira

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Humira (Adalimumab).

Allergic reactions: In rare cases, some people may develop an allergic reaction to Humira (Adalimumab). Signs of an allergic reaction include a severe rash, hives, swollen face or throat, or difficulty breathing. If these occur, contact your doctor immediately. The needle cover on the prefilled syringe contains dry natural rubber. Before you start injections, tell your doctor if you have an allergy to rubber or latex.

Blood disorders: Rarely, people taking Humira (Adalimumab) have become deficient in certain types of blood cells. If you notice signs of anemia (dizziness, pale skin, unusual tiredness or weakness, shortness of breath), signs of infection (such as fever, shaking or chills, fast heartbeat, or quick breathing) or bleeding (such as easy bruising, blood in the stools, black tarry stools, or vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds), seek immediate medical attention.

Cancer: Compared to the general population, people taking Humira (Adalimumab) have a slightly greater risk of developing a cancer of the immune system known as lymphoma. This appears to be more likely if Infliximab, Azathioprine, or Mercaptopurine have also been used. However, the risk is still small. In general, people with severe rheumatoid arthritis who take medications that suppress the immune system over long periods of time may also have a higher risk of developing lymphoma, even if they don't take Humira (Adalimumab). If you experience any of the following or other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor immediately:

• chills
• decreased appetite
• fever
• night sweats
• one or more enlarged lymph node
• unusual fatigue
• weight loss

Signs and symptoms of lymphoma can vary depending on the extent of the disease and the parts of the body involved (e.g., chest, abdomen, or bowel).

Dizziness: Humira (Adalimumab) may cause dizziness and fatigue. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know that Humira (Adalimumab) does not affect your ability to perform these tasks safely.

Heart failure: Humira (Adalimumab) may cause Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) or worsen existing CHF. If you have CHF, you should be monitored closely by your doctors. Symptoms to watch for include swelling of the feet and ankles and shortness of breath. If you notice these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

Immune system disorders: Some people who take Humira (Adalimumab) have developed lupus-like syndrome, an autoimmune disease (a condition where the body is attacked by its own immune system). Symptoms of lupus-like syndrome include chest pain, joint pain, difficulty breathing, and a skin rash (usually on the cheeks and arms) that is sensitive to the sun. If you develop these symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Infections: Humira (Adalimumab) or other TNF blockers can increase the risk of developing serious bacteria and fungi infections, such as tuberculosis and various types of pneumonia. If you notice signs of an infection such as fever, chills, pain, swelling, or pus, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Tell your doctor if you have an infection or have a history of infections that keep coming back or other conditions that might increase your risk of infections, including fungal infections prior to initiating therapy. Humira (Adalimumab) should not be used in combination with Anakinra, as this can increase the risk of severe infections.

People infected with hepatitis B virus (an infection that can damage the liver) may have a relapse of their condition while taking Humira (Adalimumab). If you are at risk for hepatitis B, your doctor may test you for this infection before starting treatment with Humira (Adalimumab) and will follow your condition closely while you are taking the medication. If you notice symptoms of liver problems, such as abdominal pain, yellow eyes or skin, loss of appetite, fatigue, or dark urine, contact your doctor immediately.

Nervous system diseases: Rare cases of disorders that affect the nervous system have been reported by people taking Humira (Adalimumab) or other TNF blockers. If you are experiencing numbness and tingling, vision problems, weakness in your legs, and dizziness, contact your doctor immediately.

Surgery: There is little information regarding the safety of having surgical procedures if you are using Humira (Adalimumab). You may be at an increased risk of developing infections after the surgery. Let all the medical professionals involved in your care know that you are taking Humira (Adalimumab).

Vaccines: Live vaccines (e.g., yellow fever, BCG, Cholera, typhoid, varicella) should not be given when you are taking Humira (Adalimumab).

Pregnancy: Humira (Adalimumab) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Contact your doctor if you become pregnant while taking Humira (Adalimumab).

Breast-feeding: It is not known if Humira (Adalimumab) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Humira (Adalimumab), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Humira (Adalimumab) have not been established for children less than 2 years of age or who weigh less than 10 kg, for the treatment of JIA or for the treatment of uveitis. The use of Humira (Adalimumab) to treat Crohn's disease in adolescents should be limited to children who weigh more than 40 kg and are over 13 years old. When children and teenagers have been treated with Humira (Adalimumab), some have developed lymphoma (cancer of the immune system) and other types of cancer.

Seniors: People over the age of 65 years may be more at risk of side effects from Humira (Adalimumab).