Drug Guide
Adalimumab-aaty
Classification
Therapeutic: Immunosuppressant, Anti-TNF alpha agent
Pharmacological: Monoclonal antibody, Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha inhibitor
FDA Approved Indications
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
- Plaque psoriasis
- Hidradenitis suppurativa
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Pyoderma gangrenosum
Mechanism of Action
Adalimumab-aaty binds specifically to tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, thereby inhibiting its activity and reducing inflammation and immune response involved in autoimmune diseases.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Dosed based on condition; often 40 mg every other week or weekly subcutaneously. Specific dosing varies per indication and patient response.
Pediatric: Dosing varies by indication and weight; typically 20 mg or 40 mg every other week or weekly.
Geriatric: Similar to adult dosing; monitor for increased risk of infections.
Renal Impairment: No specific adjustment needed but caution advised.
Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustment needed.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Bioavailability approximately 64% after subcutaneous injection.
Distribution: Widely distributed with a volume of distribution approximately 4 liters.
Metabolism: Broken down into peptides and amino acids via proteolytic pathways.
Excretion: Metabolized to amino acids; no specific renal or hepatic clearance pathways.
Half Life: Approximately 2 weeks (around 10-20 days).
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to adalimumab or excipients
- Active infections, including tuberculosis
Precautions
- Screen for latent tuberculosis before initiation
- Monitor for signs of infection during therapy
- Use with caution in patients with demyelinating disease, heart failure, or history of cancer
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Infections (upper respiratory infections) (Common)
- Injection site reactions (Common)
- Headache (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Serious infections (sepsis, pneumonia) (Less common)
- Lymphoma and other malignancies (Rare)
- Demyelinating diseases (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Other immunosuppressants, live vaccines
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor for signs of infection, injection site reactions, and development of antibodies.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for infection
- Risk for impaired skin integrity
Implementation: Administer as prescribed, monitor patient response, educate about infection risk.
Evaluation: Assess for therapeutic response and adverse reactions.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Report signs of infection such as fever, cough, or sore throat.
- Inform about potential injection site reactions.
- Advise on the importance of routine screening for infections.
- Discuss the need for regular medical follow-ups.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- Increased risk of serious infections, including tuberculosis, and malignancies, especially lymphoma.
Genetic Factors: Genetic predisposition may affect immune response.
Lab Test Interference: Can affect certain lab tests, such as tuberculin skin tests.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Unknown; likely immunosuppression, increased infection risk.
Treatment: Supportive care; immediate medical attention.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze.
Stability: Stable until the expiration date printed on the label when stored properly.