-
DE
Adalimumab: Uses, Mechanism & Side Effects
Adalimumab is a biologic medication used to treat chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis.
Add as Preferred SourceThings worth knowing about "Adalimumab"
Adalimumab is a biologic medication used to treat chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis.
What is Adalimumab?
Adalimumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody that targets tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), a key signaling molecule of the immune system. TNF-α plays a central role in driving inflammation in a range of chronic inflammatory diseases. Adalimumab belongs to the class of medicines known as biologics and is marketed under the brand name Humira, as well as several approved biosimilar products.
Mechanism of Action
Adalimumab works by binding specifically and with high affinity to both soluble and membrane-bound TNF-α. By neutralizing TNF-α, it prevents this molecule from binding to its receptors on cell surfaces and triggering inflammation-promoting signaling cascades. This leads to a significant reduction in inflammatory processes throughout the body.
- Inhibition of TNF-α-mediated inflammatory response
- Reduction in the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines
- Decreased migration of immune cells into inflamed tissue
- Protection of joints and tissues from structural damage
Indications (Approved Uses)
Adalimumab is approved for a wide range of chronic inflammatory conditions, including:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (inflammatory joint disease)
- Psoriatic arthritis (psoriasis with joint involvement)
- Ankylosing spondylitis (inflammatory spinal disease)
- Crohn's disease (chronic inflammatory bowel disease)
- Ulcerative colitis (inflammatory disease of the large intestine)
- Plaque psoriasis (chronic skin condition)
- Uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye)
- Hidradenitis suppurativa (chronic inflammatory skin condition)
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (in children and adolescents)
Dosage and Administration
Adalimumab is administered as a subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected just under the skin, typically in the abdomen or thigh. It is available as a pre-filled syringe or autoinjector pen, and can be self-administered at home after appropriate training.
Dosing intervals vary depending on the condition being treated:
- For most adult indications: 40 mg every two weeks
- For some indications, weekly dosing of 40 mg may be required
- In children, dosing is based on body weight and the specific condition
Side Effects
Like all medicines, adalimumab can cause side effects. The most common include:
- Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, pain)
- Increased susceptibility to infections, especially respiratory infections
- Headache and dizziness
- Elevated liver enzyme levels
- Skin rash
Less common but serious side effects may include:
- Serious infections (e.g., tuberculosis, opportunistic infections)
- Reactivation of latent tuberculosis
- Demyelinating disorders (damage to nerve sheaths)
- Worsening of pre-existing heart failure
- Lymphoma and other malignancies (rare)
Contraindications
Adalimumab must not be used in patients with:
- Active severe infections, including active tuberculosis
- Moderate to severe heart failure
- Known hypersensitivity to adalimumab or any of its excipients
Important Considerations Before and During Treatment
Before starting adalimumab therapy, patients must be tested for latent tuberculosis, as inhibition of TNF-α can promote its reactivation. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional is required throughout treatment. Live vaccines should not be administered during therapy with adalimumab.
Adalimumab Biosimilars
Following the expiry of the patent for the original product Humira, several biosimilars (biologically similar follow-on medicines) have become available on the market. These biosimilars have demonstrated comparable efficacy and a similar safety profile to the original product, and are subject to rigorous evaluation by regulatory authorities.
References
- European Medicines Agency (EMA): Humira - European Public Assessment Report (EPAR). Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu
- Smolen JS et al. - EULAR recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis with synthetic and biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, 2020.
- Summary of Product Characteristics - Humira (Adalimumab), AbbVie, current version.
Building Blocks for a Healthy Life
As an integrated manufacturer, we develop & produce evidence-based, patented, and non-patented formulations. We work exclusively with plant and natural extracts according to the strictest purity & quality standards.
The combination of science & modern technology with the laws of nature creates solutions consistently tailored to humans – for the highest good: health.
Skip product gallery
Subscription available
Floral
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®30 lozenges
Regular price:
22,90 €
Discount
Subscription available
Lactoferrin 60 Capsules
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
60 Capsules
Sale price:
50,00 €
Regular price:
59,90 €
Discount
Subscription available
Multivitamin Mineral Complex
Daily basic supply: the complete spectrum of micronutrients
Natural multivitamin complex for the immune system, energy, and central body functions
30 Capsules
Sale price:
27,90 €
Regular price:
29,90 €
Subscription available
Natural Iron
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
30 Capsules
Regular price:
35,90 €
Most read entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryMagnesiumcarbonat
Magnesiumcarbonat ist eine anorganische Magnesiumverbindung mit säure-neutralisierender (antazidischer) Wirkung. Erfahre mehr über Vorteile, Einsatzgebiete und Unterschiede zu besser resorbierbaren Magnesiumformen.
Calorie content
The choice of food influences our energy intake. The calorie content varies greatly - some provide little energy, others a lot.
Cologne list
The Cologne List ® is an important initiative in competitive sports that offers athletes guidance in the selection of nutritional supplements.