Adalimumab

Adalimumab is a biologic drug belonging to the class of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors. In rheumatology, it is primarily used for the treatment of various autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases, particularly in cases where there is a component of chronic inflammation mediated by TNF-α.

The main indications of adalimumab in rheumatology include:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis where adalimumab has shown to reduce joint inflammation and improve symptoms in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis who do not adequately respond to conventional therapies such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
  • Psoriatic arthritis where adalimumab has demonstrated to reduce joint and skin inflammation, improve joint function, and the quality of life.
  • Ankylosing spondylitis where adalimumab has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis, a disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the sacroiliac joints and spine, improving mobility and reducing pain and stiffness.
  • Juvenile idiopathic arthritis where adalimumab has shown to control inflammation, prevent joint damage, improve joint function, and the quality of life.

Adalimumab is typically administered subcutaneously at periodic intervals (normally 2 week) and can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other immunosuppressive agents depending on individual patient needs and disease severity.

Adalimumab is typically administered subcutaneously at periodic intervals and may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other immunosuppressive agents depending on individual patient needs and disease severity. It is important to note that adalimumab, like other biologic medications, may increase the risk of infections and adverse reactions, so its use should be closely monitored by a rheumatologist.