Humira is a type of medication that blocks the production of a protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) that causes immune diseases. Humira is called a TNF blocker. Immune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and Crohn’s Disease cause people to have too much TNF in their bodies.
What are some important things I should know about Humira?
Humira received a black box warning from the FDA that cautions people about the drugs link to tuberculosis, invasive fungal infections and other infections, some of which have been fatal. If you have an infection, such as an open sore or the flu, you should not begin taking Humira.
All patients must be tested for latent tuberculosis infection before taking Humira, and doctors should monitor patients for signs and symptoms of active tuberculosis while they are receiving Humira.
Humira helps reduce symptoms of many immune diseases, including:
- rheumatoid arthritis, which is a chronic condition that causes painful joint inflammation
- psoriatic arthritis, which is a chronic condition that causes painful inflammation of skin and joints
- ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic condition that causes painful inflammation of the spine and sacroiliac joints
- moderate to severe Crohn’s Disease, which is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract
Although these conditions cannot be completely healed, Humira can reduce signs and symptoms and in most cases keep the condition from getting worse.
- tuberculosis
- fungal infections
- opportunistic infections
- certain types of cancer
- allergic reactions
- hepatitis B virus reactivation
- nervous system problems
- blood problems
- new or worsening heart failure
- immune reactions
Talk to your doctor about the risks of Humira, including death from serious infection. You should also contact your doctor immediately and stop taking Humira if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- skin rash
- swollen face
- trouble breathing
- numbness or tingling
- vision problems
- dizziness
- weakness in your legs
- fever
- bruising or bleeding easily
- swelling of feet and ankles
- joint pain
- sun sensitivity