Valuable facts you need to know about Humira if you have arthritis

Humira (Adalimumab) is a medication prescribed for the treatment of many conditions. Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Plaque Psoriasis, Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, and Hidradenitis Suppurativa are conditions that Humira has been proven effective in treating.

In patients diagnosed with moderate to severe Rheumatoid Arthritis, Humira used in conjunction with methotrexate, has been shown to reduce joint pain and swelling and may prevent further damage to joints and bones. Although individual results may vary, patients report a restored ability to perform daily activities.

For Psoriatic Arthritis sufferers already taking anti-rheumatic drugs like methotrexate, Humira can be beneficial for reducing the red, scaly skin patches known as plaques, as well as reducing joint pain.

The cause of Plaque Psoriasis is unknown, though it has been linked with the immune system and an excess of the protein TNF-alpha. This excess of TNF-alpha produces rapid skin cell growth leading to plaques, the red flaky patches on your skin. Humira is a TNF-alpha blocker. It’s use has been shown to reduce plaque psoriasis symptoms.

If you suffer from Crohn’s Disease and have not responded well to, have lost response to, or cannot tolerate conventional treatments, Humira may help. In both children and adults, Humira is proven to reduce signs and symptoms, and achieve and maintain clinical remission.

Ulcerative Colitis, unlike Crohn’s Disease, affects only the large intestine. A combination of genetics, environment, and immune system cause this condition, with the immune system being the major contributor. Humira works to balance the immune system bringing moderate to severe ulcerative colitis under control.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a chronic skin condition also believed to stem from immune system deficiencies. Humira is the only FDA approved treatment for this condition. Many patients report reduced inflammatory nodules and abscesses with use of Humira.

Ankylosing Sponytis is a condition where pain, inflammation, and stiffness occur mainly in spinal joints not caused by any specific injury. It is more common in men than women, and usually begins before the age of 40. In clinical testing, Humira has been proven to reduce symptoms in 58 percent of the test field.

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis is an autoimmune disease. It affects five or more joints commonly on the same side of the body. It is the most common type of arthritis in children. In a clinical study targeting patients ages 4-17, Humira was shown to help the signs and symptoms of moderate to severe polyarticular JIA, even when other non-biologic medications had not worked.

Humira is a TNF blocker and can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infection and disease. Some serious infections have occurred such as tuberculosis, infections caused by viruses, fungi, and bacteria, cancers, Hepatitis B, blood, liver, and nervous system problems.

As with any medication, consult your doctor as to it’s advantages for your condition. Tell your doctor about all current and previous health conditions and all medications you are currently taking.

Humira is FDA approved and proven to provide significant relief from certain conditions. Ask your doctor is it may be right for you.

For more information about Humira or other medications, contact Optum Perks. At Optum Perks, you can search, find and save on prescription medications like Humira.