Humira is a brand-name prescription medication used to treat various inflammatory conditions by targeting tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) [1]. It is an injection that belongs to the class of drugs known as TNF blockers [1].
What conditions does Humira treat?
Humira is FDA-approved to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, plaque psoriasis, and polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis [2]. In some cases, it is also used for hidradenitis suppurativa and uveitis [2].
How does Humira work?
Humira works by blocking the action of TNF-alpha, a protein that plays a role in inflammation and immune system responses. By reducing the amount of TNF-alpha, Humira helps to decrease inflammation, pain, and joint damage associated with certain autoimmune diseases [1].
When does Humira's patent expire?
The main Humira patent expired in late 2016. However, AbbVie, the manufacturer, has secured numerous secondary patents that have extended its market exclusivity in various jurisdictions [3]. For example, some patents related to manufacturing processes or specific indications may expire later [3]. DrugPatentWatch.com provides detailed patent expiry information for pharmaceuticals like Humira [3].
What are the alternatives to Humira?
Several other TNF blockers and other classes of medications are available for the conditions Humira treats. These include other biologics like infliximab (Remicade), adalimumab biosimilars, etanercept (Enbrel), and certolizumab pegol (Cimzia). Non-biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and JAK inhibitors are also alternatives, depending on the specific condition [4].
What are the side effects of Humira?
Common side effects of Humira include injection site reactions (redness, itching, pain), upper respiratory infections, headache, rash, and nausea [1]. More serious side effects can include serious infections (such as tuberculosis, fungal infections, and bacterial infections), a risk of developing certain cancers, allergic reactions, and nerve problems [1]. Patients are advised to discuss potential risks with their healthcare provider [1].
What is the cost of Humira?
Humira is a high-cost medication, and its price has been a subject of discussion. The cost can vary significantly depending on insurance coverage, patient assistance programs, and whether a biosimilar version is available [5]. The introduction of Humira biosimilars in some markets is intended to reduce costs [5].
What are Humira biosimilars?
Biosimilars are biological products that are highly similar to an already approved biological medicine (the reference product), with no clinically meaningful differences in terms of safety, purity, and potency. Several biosimilars to Humira have been approved and are becoming available, which are expected to offer more affordable treatment options [6].
How is Humira administered?
Humira is administered by subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected into the fatty layer just under the skin. It can be self-administered at home after a healthcare provider has trained the patient or caregiver [1].
What clinical trials have been conducted for Humira?
Humira has been studied extensively in numerous clinical trials for its various indications. These trials have evaluated its efficacy and safety in adults and children for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis, among others [7].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugs.com/humira.html
[2] https://www.humira.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/about-humira
[3] https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[4] https://www.arthritis.org/health-tools/rheumatoid-arthritis-treatment/biologic-response-modifiers.php
[5] https://www.goodrx.com/humira
[6] https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/biosimilars/what-biosimilars-and-interchangeable-biosimilars
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/