What Is Humira?
Humira (adalimumab) is a prescription biologic medication used to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA), along with other autoimmune conditions. It works by blocking tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a protein that causes inflammation in the joints and other parts of the body.
Approved by the FDA, Humira is one of the most widely prescribed TNF inhibitors in the U.S. for moderate to severe RA, especially when methotrexate or other DMARDs are not enough.
How Humira Works for Severe RA
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks its own joints. Humira:
Reduces joint swelling and pain
Prevents long-term joint and cartilage damage
Improves physical function and quality of life
Slows progression of joint deterioration in advanced RA cases
Who Should Use Humira?
Humira may be recommended for:
Adults with severe, active RA not controlled by conventional drugs
Patients who fail to respond to methotrexate alone
Individuals who qualify for biologic therapy under a rheumatologist's supervision
How It’s Taken
Injected under the skin (subcutaneous)
Typically once every other week, or weekly for some severe cases
Can be self-administered using a pen or prefilled syringe
Common Side Effects
Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, itching)
Increased risk of infections (upper respiratory, sinus)
Headache and fatigue
Rare: tuberculosis reactivation, liver issues, and serious infections
Patients need routine blood work and screening for infections (like TB) before and during treatment.
Cost and Insurance in the U.S.
Retail cost: ~$6,000/month without insurance
Covered by most private insurance, Medicare Part D, and Medicaid
AbbVie’s Humira Complete program offers copay assistance and nurse support