Psoriasis can be a challenging and distressing condition, especially when it affects a significant portion of your body. Despite trying various treatments, it may seem like nothing works. However, there are other options to explore, such as biologic medications like Humira, which can potentially help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Humira is known to be effective in reducing the visual marks of Psoriasis and alleviating its symptoms. In this article, we will delve into how Humira shots can benefit you and your Psoriasis. So, read on to learn more.
What Is Humira?
Humira is a prescription biologic medication primarily used to manage moderate to severe plaque psoriasis symptoms, although it may also be effective for other types of psoriasis.
The key ingredients in Humira are adalimumab (20mg), polysorbate 80 (0.2mg), mannitol (8.4mg), and water.
It’s important to note that Humira can only be prescribed by a licensed physician and is typically recommended for patients who have already tried other treatments and are now considering systemic therapy or phototherapy.
Although Humira is known for its potential to clear up to 75% of psoriasis symptoms, individual results may vary, and it’s essential to have realistic expectations when using this medication.
Benefits of Humira for Psoriasis Patients
Humira is known to be effective in reducing the visual marks of psoriasis and alleviating its symptoms. Here are some of the benefits of using Humira for psoriasis:
- Reduced Inflammation: Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system, which leads to inflammation in the skin. Humira works by blocking a protein called TNF-alpha, which is responsible for causing inflammation. By reducing inflammation, Humira can help to manage psoriasis symptoms such as redness, itching, and scaling.
- Improved Skin Appearance: Humira can also help to improve the appearance of psoriasis-affected skin. Studies have shown that Humira can clear up to 75% of psoriasis symptoms, such as plaques and redness, within a few months of treatment. This can help to boost self-confidence and improve overall quality of life.
- Long-Term Relief: Humira can provide long-term relief for psoriasis. Unlike some other treatments, such as topical creams, which may only provide temporary relief, Humira can help to keep psoriasis symptoms under control for an extended period. This can allow patients to lead a more normal life without constantly worrying about their condition.
It is important to note that Humira can have side effects, and it is essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a licensed physician before starting treatment. However, for many patients with psoriasis, Humira can be a highly effective treatment option that can significantly improve their quality of life.
Side Effects of Humira for Psoriasis Patients
While Humira can be an effective treatment option for psoriasis, it’s essential to be aware of the potential side effects. Here are some of the most common side effects of Humira for psoriasis:
- Injection Site Reactions: The most common side effect of Humira is injection site reactions, which can include pain, redness, swelling, and itching at the injection site. These reactions are typically mild and go away within a few days.
- Increased Risk of Infections: Because Humira works by suppressing the immune system, it can increase the risk of infections. This can include serious infections such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, and sepsis. It’s important to be vigilant for signs of infection, such as fever, cough, and chills, and to seek medical attention if any symptoms arise.
- Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, Humira can cause allergic reactions. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
- Nervous System Disorders: There have been reports of nervous system disorders such as multiple sclerosis and seizures in patients taking Humira. While the risk of these conditions is low, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and to discuss them with a licensed physician before starting treatment.
It’s important to remember that the benefits of Humira for psoriasis can outweigh the potential risks for many patients. However, it’s essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a licensed physician and to report any side effects that arise during treatment.
How Humira is used for Psoriasis Treatment
Here’s how to use Humira for psoriasis:
- Humira is a prescription medication and can only be prescribed by a licensed physician. Your doctor will determine if Humira is right for you based on your medical history and current condition.
- Humira comes in the form of an injectable pen or syringe. Your doctor or a trained healthcare professional will show you how to properly inject Humira. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that you are getting the correct dose and that the injection is administered properly.
- Humira is typically injected under the skin (subcutaneously) in the thigh or abdomen. The injection site should be rotated with each dose to avoid injection site reactions.
- The dosing schedule for Humira can vary depending on the severity of your psoriasis and your response to treatment. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosing schedule for you. Generally, the recommended starting dose for Humira is 80 mg, followed by 40 mg every other week.
- It’s important to continue using Humira as directed by your doctor, even if you start to feel better. Stopping or skipping doses of Humira can decrease its effectiveness in controlling psoriasis symptoms.
- It’s essential to be aware of the potential side effects of Humira and to report any side effects to your doctor immediately. It’s also important to avoid exposure to infections and to practice good hygiene, as Humira can increase the risk of infections.
Remember to always follow the instructions provided by your doctor and to report any concerns or side effects that arise during treatment. With proper use and monitoring, Humira can be an effective treatment option for psoriasis.
FAQs
Does Humira Work for Psoriasis?
Humira has been found to be an effective treatment for psoriasis for many individuals. While the results may vary from person to person, there is a good chance that Humira may work well in treating your psoriasis symptoms.
How Often Is Humira Injection for Psoriasis?
Typically, Humira injections for psoriasis are given every other week. In more severe cases, a doctor may recommend weekly shots. However, the frequency of injections will be determined based on the patient’s individual clinical picture, and it is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the doctor to ensure the medication is effective and safe.
How Does Humira Work for Plaque Psoriasis?
Humira can be an effective treatment for plaque psoriasis. It works by blocking tumor necrosis factor (TNF) protein, which causes inflammation and triggers psoriasis symptoms. While some patients may see improvements within just two weeks of starting Humira, it may take up to four months to see long-lasting results on the skin.
Does Humira Cause Weight Gain?
Humira is not known to cause weight gain or weight loss. However, if a patient on Humira develops a serious infection, they may experience complications and side effects that could lead to changes in weight. It’s important to note that any changes in weight during Humira treatment are likely due to other factors and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Does Humira Cause Hair Loss?
Although it is not common for Humira treatment to cause hair loss, in some rare cases, hair fall has been reported as a side effect. The exact cause of this is not known, but some researchers suspect that an imbalance of cytokine molecules may be behind it.
Who Should Not Take Humira?
Individuals who have heart failure or multiple sclerosis should consult with their doctor before taking Humira, as it may worsen their condition. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should also inform their doctor as Humira may pose a risk to the fetus. It’s important to talk to your doctor about your medical history and any current medications before starting Humira treatment.