How should I use adalimumab?
Before you start treatment with adalimumab, your doctor may perform tests to make sure
you do not have tuberculosis or other infections.
Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in
larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the instructions
on your prescription label.
Adalimumab is given as an injection under the skin of your stomach or thigh. Your
doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider will give you this injection. You may be given
instructions on how to inject your medicine at home. Do not use this medicine at home if you do
not fully understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of needles and syringes used
in giving the medicine.
This medication comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these
directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Adalimumab is usually given every other week, although you may need to use it once a
week. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Use each pre-filled syringe of adalimumab only one time. Throw away any unused portion
of the medication. Do not save it for later use.
Throw away used needles and syringes in a puncture-proof container. If your medicine
does not come with such a container, ask your pharmacist where you can get one. Keep this
container out of the reach of children and pets. Your pharmacist can tell you how to properly
dispose of the container.
Adalimumab can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can
make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill.
To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular
basis. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
It is important to use adalimumab regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription
refilled before you run out of medicine completely.
Store adalimumab in the refrigerator but do not allow it to freeze. If you travel with the
prefilled syringe, keep it in a small cooler with an ice pack and protect it from light.
Do not remove the prefilled syringe from the refrigerator or cooler until you are ready to
give yourself an injection. Do not use the medication if it has changed colors or has any particles
in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the medication as soon as you remember, and then go back to your regular injection
schedule. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
An overdose of adalimumab is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.
What should I avoid while using adalimumab?
Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Contact
your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.
Do not receive a "live" vaccine while you are being treated with adalimumab.
Avoid injecting adalimumab into skin that is bruised, red, tender, or hard.
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