HOW IS ADALIMUMAB (HUMIRA) GIVEN?

The beginning doses of Humira build up the levels of medicine in the body. This is called the induction phase.

• The first 2 injections are considered to be the induction phase
• The first time, 2 syringes or autoinjectors will be given. Each is already filled with 80 milligrams (mg) of the medicine
• The second time (2 weeks later), just one of the 80 mg syringes or autoinjectors will be used.
• After that, you will receive one shot every other week to maintain the effectiveness of the medicine.  These syringes have 40 mg of adalimumab
• There are some who will receive the shot every week in order to maintain effectiveness
• Children under 88 pounds (40 kg) receive ½ of the amount heavier individuals receive. When they grow and gain to over 88 pounds, their dose will usually be increased. 
• Drug levels may be obtained to make sure an adequate amount of medicine stays in your body and to test for any antibodies that may interfere with how the medicine is working  
• Some patients can have pain, redness, rash, swelling, itching, or bruising where the medicine is injected. These are temporary and generally resolve quickly.