I just started on Humira a month ago. It's expensive, even when on Medicare. But, once your deductible is met for your RX plan and your Medicare out-of-pocket is met it's fine. I have trouble with a lot of medications. I had to try Methotrexate first but fortunately after one dose and terrible heartburn for a month I was able to move on to adalimumab-ahaz (biosimilar for Humira.) The injections are very easy to administer to yourself. I've had NO side effects so far. Plaque psoriasis on my elbows cleared up in just a few days! Guttate spots on my legs cleared up in a couple of weeks. My inverse psoriasis took almost a month to clear up. My scalp psoriasis is much better but I've heard it takes longer to clear. I still use Clobetasol as needed for my scalp. In addition, my back and hip has not bothered me at night and I'm able to sit comfortably in chairs other than hard straightback chairs. That means I can get comfortable and read a book which is amazing for me. I haven't seen the rheumatologist yet, but she suspects I have psoriatic arthritis, and the way my back has improved I also think I have PsA. I also have osteoarthritis all over my body, including my back, so when I get out of bed my back is still stiff, but not as bad as before. One other thing I've noticed is that when it's almost time for my next dose (every 2 weeks) I feel a little back discomfort in bed, but not nearly as bad as before. And since I've only had my loading dose (2 injections) + 2 additional injections spaced 2 weeks apart, I haven't been on it long enough to get the full benefits. The only problem I seem to have is my RX Plan (Humana) getting info from my dermatologist who prescribed Humira. I don't know if the problem is with Humana or my dermatology office, but I really have to stay on top of it. She gave me a 11 months of refills so I should be good for a year, now.
Curious about what Humira is actually like for people with psoriasis? Here's a snapshot of what MyPsoriasisTeam members have shared from their real-world experiences.
The Good Stuff
- It can effectively clear skin when other treatments haven't worked
- Self-injection means treatment can be done at home
- Dosing is less Show Full Answer