What to Expect When Taking HUMIRA for Crohn's Disease
HUMIRA is used to reduce the signs and symptoms of moderate to severe Crohn’s disease in adults who have not responded well to conventional treatments. HUMIRA is also for these adults with moderate to severe Crohn's disease who have lost response to or are unable to tolerate infliximab.
Some people taking HUMIRA noticed a significant improvement in their Crohn's disease symptoms in as little as 4 weeks.
Serious infections have happened in patients taking HUMIRA. These infections include tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by viruses, fungi, or bacteria that have spread throughout the body. Some patients have died from these infections.
HUMIRA may increase the chance of getting lymphoma or other cancers.
HUMIRA can cause serious side effects including allergic reactions, hepatitis B virus reactivation, nervous system problems, blood problems, heart failure, certain immune reactions (including a lupus-like syndrome), and new or worsening psoriasis.
Please click here for additional Important Safety Information you should know about HUMIRA and discuss it with your doctor.
Every 2 Weeks, After Your Starting Doses
HUMIRA is injected just beneath the skin. While the idea of self-injection may
be difficult for some people, with training and practice it should become easier.
Visit the
Administering HUMIRA page to read the injection steps and see an instructional
video. Full injection instructions are also available in the Medication Guide in
the HUMIRA box.
Make sure you have been instructed by a healthcare provider on how to inject HUMIRA before you do it yourself. Your first injection should be given under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
You can call your doctor or 1-800-4HUMIRA (448-6472) if you have questions about giving yourself an injection.
When you begin taking HUMIRA for Crohn's disease, you will need to take multiple
injections for the
first two doses. But after the starting doses, you will inject a single Pen
of HUMIRA every 2 weeks.
One of the most common side effects with HUMIRA is injection site reactions such as redness, rash, swelling, itching, or bruising. These symptoms usually will go away within a few days.
If you have pain, redness, or swelling around the injection site that doesn’t go away within a few days or gets worse, call your doctor right away.
Signs of a serious allergic reaction include a skin rash, swollen face, and trouble breathing.
Call your doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms.
DO NOT inject HUMIRA more often than prescribed.
Stick to Your Routine
It's important to take HUMIRA according to the
schedule your doctor prescribes. If you forget to take HUMIRA when you're
supposed to, inject the next dose as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose when your
next scheduled dose is due. This will put you back on schedule. If you have any
questions, consult your doctor.
Practical Strategies to Manage Crohn's Disease
Despite the possibility of long periods of remission, there is no known medical
or surgical cure for Crohn's disease. However, in addition to your treatment, there
are practical strategies you can learn that may help you manage many of your Crohn's disease
symptoms:
- Learn more
about Crohn's disease – Your healthcare provider may be a good place to
start. He or she can answer questions and suggest specific resources for more information
and support.
- Choose your diet carefully – Although there is no evidence
that diet is a direct cause of Crohn's disease, you may find that certain foods
or beverages affect the severity of your symptoms. Good nutrition is important for
people with Crohn's disease. Ask your doctor about ways to maintain a healthy diet and discuss if seeing a dietitian would be right for you.
- Plan ahead – The unpredictable nature of some Crohn's disease symptoms
such as diarrhea, gas and abdominal pain may discourage some people with Crohn's
disease from leading active lives. Being prepared for flare-ups and selecting destinations
carefully is important.
- Reduce stress in your life – As with diet, stress does not cause the onset
of Crohn's disease, but it may trigger flare-ups and aggravate symptoms in some people. When possible,
try to avoid stressful situations. Exercising may help reduce stress levels,
and consider practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation. Make sure you talk to your doctor before starting any exercise plan.
- Create a support system – Talking openly and positively about Crohn's disease
with your doctor, family and friends may help reduce the emotional impact of the
disease. Support groups also can be
helpful. Visit
the CCFA (Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America) Web site for more information
and to find a group in your area.
Learn more about managing Crohn's symptoms
Click here for Uses and Important Safety Information you should know about HUMIRA and discuss it with your doctor.