Humira (adalimumab) is used to treat several autoimmune conditions. The drug typically stays in your system for a few months after your final dose.
This article explains how long Humira may remain in your system and what to expect if you stop treatment.
Humira may stay in your system for about 2 to 4 months after your final dose. The exact time frame can vary from person to person.
Certain factors may influence how long Humira remains in your system, including:
- How often you take it: If you inject Humira every week, it may take longer for your body to fully clear the drug than if you inject it every other week.
- Age: For older adults (ages 65 years and older), it may take longer for their bodies to clear Humira than for younger adults or children.
- Other medications: Certain drugs, such as methotrexate (Rasuvo, Trexall, others), can change how your body breaks down Humira. This may affect how long the drug stays in your system.
To learn more about how long Humira may stay in your body, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can explain what to expect based on your health, other medications you take, and your treatment plan.
Humira is typically injected once every 1 to 2 weeks. The dosing schedule is designed to keep steady levels of the drug in your body.
Some people may notice Humira wearing off between doses, especially early in treatment, before the drug has built up in the body.
If your symptoms return before your next Humira dose, talk with your doctor. They may adjust your dosing schedule or recommend another treatment.
Humira works by calming an overactive immune system. Its effects may continue for a while, even after you stop using it.
How quickly symptoms of your condition return isn’t always predictable. Some people may continue to notice relief for weeks or months after their last dose of Humira. Others may find their symptoms come back more quickly once Humira levels get low in their body.
If you plan to stop using Humira, talk with your doctor first. They can recommend how to do so safely and discuss next steps for managing your condition.
After your final dose of Humira, the drug may remain in your body for several months. However, symptoms of your condition may eventually return once treatment is stopped and drug levels in your body drop.
If you’re considering stopping Humira treatment, talk with your doctor. They can help you plan the right approach for your health and treatment goals.