Adalimumab (Humira): a brief review for dermatologists

Adalimumab is a new purely human TNF-alpha monoclonal antibody that has been approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis as monotherapy or in combination with methotrexate. It is administered by subcutaneous injection in a 40-mg dose every other week. The one published Phase II trial of adalimumab for psoriasis has provided very encouraging results for its efficacy. Its most important side effects relate to the development of infection while it is being used. It is a promising medication and research regarding its use continues.