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Adalimumab: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Adalimumab is a tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibitor biologic used to treat a range of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.

Forms:SC Injection

About Adalimumab

Indications of Adalimumab

Adalimumab is a tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibitor biologic used to treat a range of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Indications are classified below by strength of evidence.

Established / FDA-Approved Indications

  • Moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA), typically in combination with methotrexate or as monotherapy if methotrexate is not tolerated
  • Active psoriatic arthritis
  • Active ankylosing spondylitis
  • Moderately to severely active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (in patients 2 years of age and older)
  • Moderately to severely active Crohn's disease (adults and pediatric patients 6 years and older)
  • Moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (adults and pediatric patients 5 years and older)
  • Moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis in candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy
  • Moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa
  • Non-infectious intermediate, posterior, and panuveitis

Adjunct / Combination Therapy Use

Adalimumab is frequently used as an add-on to conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (e.g., methotrexate) in rheumatoid arthritis when response to conventional therapy alone is inadequate.

Off-Label Uses (Not FDA-Approved)

Adalimumab is sometimes used off-label, under specialist supervision, for conditions such as sarcoidosis, Behçet's disease, and certain other refractory inflammatory conditions where evidence is more limited. Off-label use should only be undertaken by a specialist physician after standard therapies have failed.

Dosage & Administration of Adalimumab

Dosing of Adalimumab is individualized by indication, and in pediatric patients, often by body weight. The following table summarizes typical adult dosing regimens; a physician must confirm the exact regimen.

IndicationTypical Adult Dosing
Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis40 mg subcutaneously every other week (may increase to 40 mg weekly in RA if not on methotrexate, per physician assessment)
Crohn's disease / ulcerative colitisInduction: 160 mg on Day 1, 80 mg on Day 15; Maintenance: 40 mg every other week starting Day 29
Plaque psoriasis / non-infectious uveitisInduction: 80 mg initial dose; Maintenance: 40 mg every other week starting one week later
Hidradenitis suppurativaInduction: 160 mg on Day 1, 80 mg on Day 15; Maintenance: 40 mg weekly starting Day 29

See Pediatric Uses and Use in Special Populations for weight-based and age-specific regimens.

Side Effects of Adalimumab

Common side effects of Adalimumab include:

  • Injection site reactions (redness, itching, swelling, pain, or bruising) — usually mild and self-limiting
  • Upper respiratory tract infections, sinusitis, headache
  • Rash
  • Nausea, abdominal pain
  • Elevated liver enzymes

Serious but less common adverse effects include an increased risk of serious infections, malignancies (including lymphoma), heart failure exacerbation, demyelinating disease, and hypersensitivity reactions — see Precautions and Warnings for full detail.

Contraindications of Adalimumab

Adalimumab is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Known hypersensitivity to Adalimumab or to any component of the formulation.
  • Presence of an active, clinically significant severe infection (including active tuberculosis), as Adalimumab should not be initiated until the infection is controlled.

Frequently Asked Questions about Adalimumab

What is Adalimumab used for?

Adalimumab is used to treat chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, plaque psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and certain forms of uveitis.

How is Adalimumab given?

Adalimumab is given as a subcutaneous injection, usually every other week (dosing varies by condition), either by a healthcare professional or by the patient/caregiver at home after proper training.

What are the most serious risks of Adalimumab?

Adalimumab carries a boxed warning for an increased risk of serious infections (including tuberculosis reactivation and other opportunistic infections) and an increased risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma. Your doctor will screen you for tuberculosis and hepatitis before starting Adalimumab and monitor you throughout treatment.

Can I receive vaccines while on Adalimumab?

Inactivated vaccines are generally considered acceptable, but live vaccines should not be given while you are being treated with Adalimumab, as this may increase your risk of infection. Discuss your vaccination schedule with your physician before starting or while on Adalimumab.

Is Adalimumab safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Adalimumab should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as it does cross the placenta. Limited data suggest low transfer of Adalimumab into breast milk. Always consult your physician before using Adalimumab during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Adalimumab?

If you miss a scheduled dose of Adalimumab, inject it as soon as you remember, then resume your regular dosing schedule as advised by your physician. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one, and contact your doctor if you are unsure about timing.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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