Adalimumab - does it need tapering?

[Udupik]

Does adalimumab need to be tapered like steroids ? Or can one stop it if the desired effect of bringing down the inflammation is not achieved?

[PMRpro]

As far I can gather - only if it has been effective for the disease it is being used for. Sudden discontinuation is likely to result in a resurgence of symptoms.

"Can Humira be stopped abruptly?

You should not stop taking Humira on your own. The drug itself isn't likely to cause withdrawal symptoms. (Withdrawal refers to symptoms that can occur if you stop taking a drug that your body is dependent on.) But if you stop using Humira, symptoms of your condition may come back or worsen."

medicalnewstoday.com/articl...

There is no physical dependence like that seen with adrenal function and long term pred.

[Udupik in reply to PMRpro]

Ok thanks. Also, from your experience, how long does it take before one can arrive at a conclusion that adalimumab works or not, as the case might be ?

[PMRpro in reply to Udupik]

I have never used it but the company say it may work as quickly as two weeks or it may take up to 3 months or more - though that is using it alongside methotrexate in RA. It does depend on the disorder it is being used for - sometimes there must be healing of the damaged tissue before you see a difference and know it is working.