Humira Side Effects

Some of the potential side effects of Humira include reactions at the injection site, upper respiratory infections, and sinus infections. Most people, however, tolerate the medication without problems. If side effects do occur, they are usually minor and easily treated. However, if you experience more serious Humira side effects, such as difficulty breathing, an irregular heart rhythm, or unexplained bleeding, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.

 

Humira Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Humira® (adalimumab). However, not everyone who takes Humira will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the medication well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Humira. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Humira side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Humira

Humira has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials in which the side effects of a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. As a result, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common Humira side effects included:
 
  • Reactions at the injection site (redness, itching, pain, or swelling near the injection site) -- in up to 20 percent of people
  • Upper respiratory tract infections (such as the common cold) -- up to 17 percent
  • Sinus infections -- up to 11 percent
  • Accidental injury -- up to 10 percent
  • Nausea -- up to 9 percent
  • Urinary tract infections (bladder infection) -- up to 8 percent.
     
Other common side effects of Humira, occurring in 5 to 7 percent of people, included:
 
(Humira Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;