What side effects can Humira (adalimumab) cause?
Humira is a TNF-alpha inhibitor used for several inflammatory diseases. Side effects are typically grouped into common reactions (often at the injection site) and less common but more serious risks tied to immune suppression [1][2].
Common or expected side effects include injection-site reactions such as redness, itching, pain, or swelling [1][2]. Some people also report headache or flu-like symptoms [1].
Because Humira affects the immune system, it can increase the chance of infections and can also worsen certain medical conditions [1][2].
What are the serious side effects patients watch for?
Serious risks highlighted with Humira include:
- Serious infections, including tuberculosis (TB) and other infections that may become life-threatening [1][2].
- New or worsening autoimmune or immune-related problems, such as serious blood disorders (for example, low blood counts) [1].
- Heart-related effects, including worsening heart failure in some patients [1].
- New or worsening neurologic conditions (nervous system issues) reported with TNF inhibitors [1].
- Certain cancers have been reported in people taking TNF inhibitors, so clinicians monitor for warning signs and risk factors [1][2].
If you develop symptoms like fever that does not go away, unexplained weight loss, persistent cough, shortness of breath, severe weakness, or signs of infection, seek urgent medical care [1][2].
Can Humira increase infection risk? What about TB?
Yes. Humira can increase the risk of serious infections because it dampens parts of the immune response [1][2]. TB risk is a key concern; patients are generally screened for TB before starting therapy and monitored during treatment [1][2].
Report any symptoms of infection promptly, including coughing, fevers, night sweats, or recent exposure to TB [1][2].
What about allergic reactions or injection-site complications?
Allergic-type reactions can occur. Seek urgent care if you have signs of a severe allergy such as swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, dizziness, or widespread rash [1][2].
Injection-site reactions are relatively common and usually mild, but severe redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site should be reported to a clinician [1].
What side effects affect the liver or blood?
Humira has been associated with liver problems and blood abnormalities in some people [1]. Symptoms that should be checked include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe fatigue, unusual bruising, or infections that come back repeatedly [1].
Are there pregnancy or breastfeeding concerns with Humira side effects?
Humira is used in some patients during pregnancy and breastfeeding under clinician guidance, but side effect risks and infant monitoring depend on individual circumstances [2]. Discuss your situation with your prescribing clinician, especially if the medication could affect how an infant is vaccinated or monitored.
Who should be extra cautious about starting or staying on Humira?
Higher-risk situations include people with a history of recurrent infections, known or suspected TB, certain chronic infections (like hepatitis), or significant heart failure [1][2]. Your clinician may require screening tests before treatment and ongoing monitoring during therapy.
Also tell your clinician about other medicines you take, especially other immune-suppressing drugs, because the combination can raise the risk of infections [1][2].
What should you do if you have side effects?
For mild injection-site irritation or mild symptoms, clinicians may suggest supportive care and continued monitoring, but you should not ignore new or worsening symptoms.
For serious symptoms (high fever, symptoms of severe infection, trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, neurologic symptoms, or signs of an allergic reaction), stop and seek urgent medical care as appropriate. Contact the prescriber promptly for guidance on whether to pause treatment [1][2].
Sources
[1] https://www.rxlist.com/humira-side-effects-drug-center.htm
[2] https://www.drugs.com/sfx/humira-side-effects.html