Humira Lawsuits
Last Updated: August 2008 • 108 Comments
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The arthritis drug Humira has been linked to a number of serious and potentially life threatening infections, including potentially fatal fungal infections.
STATUS OF HUMIRA LAWSUITS: Lawyers are evaluating research surrounding safety concerns involving cancer and Humira, as well as injuries caused by fungal infections.
MANUFACTURER: Abbott Laboratories, Inc.
OVERVIEW: Humira (adalimumab) is a tumor necrosis factor blocker, also known as TNF blocker, which is approved for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn’s disease, moderate to severe chronic psoriasis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which was previously called juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
HUMIRA CANCER SIDE EFFECTS: A study published in the May 17, 2006 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) indicated that Humira side effects could increase the risk of developing cancer. Warnings have been added to the prescribing information about the possible cancer risk.
In June 2008, the FDA released an early communication about an ongoing safety review involving Humira and a possible association with the development of lymphoma and other cancers among children and young adults using the TNF blockers and a Humira black box cancer warning was added in August 2009.
At least 30 reports of childhood cancer were received by the FDA involving the use of TNF blockers. Other medications indicated in this early communication were Remicade and Enbrel.
Approximately half of the cancers seen in children and young adults taking TNF blockers were lymphomas, including bother Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which is a cancer of cells in the immune system. Lymphoma is not a recognized complication of JIA (Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis) or of Crohn’s disease. Other cancers reported included leukemia, melanoma and solid organ cancers.
HUMIRA FUNGAL INFECTIONS: A number of users who were receiving TNF blockers, such as Humira, have experienced fungal infections, such as histoplasmosis, blastomycosis and cocciioidmycosis. In several of these cases the infection resulted in death.
In September 2008, the FDA issued an alert to healthcare providers to provide new information about the risk of Humira fungal infections. At that time the agency also indicated that new information will be added to the Humira black box warning to ensure that doctors and consumers are aware of the risk, especially for those who live in or visit areas where fungus is prevalent.
Unfortunately, many cases of fungal infections from Humira go undiagnosed by doctors, since the symptoms are similar to the flu. Symptoms could include cough, fever, fatigue, loss of weight, sweating and shortness of breath.
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Comment by jan on 19 October 2008:
My fiance was put on Humira for Chrone’s disease 2 months ago and has since had a stent put in his heart a month ago and has had breathing problems since. He has since been hospitalized and the doctors cannot find his breathing problems. We are considering if the Humira drug has had some bad side effects as he is 50 yrs. old and has never had any heart problems. We are confused and don’t know if the Humira drug has altered his system this way. Two weeks after the Humira shots he had a hard time climbing up one flight of stairs and his body turned to stone like on steorids. He was also short of breath and I insisted he see the doctor. The doctor took him off the Humira and 2 weeks later he was in the hospital having a stent put in his heart. I would like more information if anyone out there has had the same conditions and if there is somewhere else I could turn to find out more information as this is puzzling and distressing to us.
Comment by Carol on 10 December 2008:
I have RA and Chron’s.
I have been on Humira for a couple of years. I have had sinus problems in the past, but after starting on Humira, my snius infections have become quite frequent. I can no longer keep the drug in my system long enough to work properly. I am actually afraid to take it anymore for the fear of an infection. When I get an infection the antibiotics really get my Chron’s flared up. It’s like a neverending cycle. I have taken antibiotics so many times that I have to take extra in order for them to work. I have repeatedly told my rheumatologist about my infections and she says that she wants to keep me on Humira or Remicade (can’t afford co-pay on Rem.) because they both help with Chron’s. I have not taken the Humira in months. I take imuran and percocet daily, but it does nothing for Chron’s. I don’t know what to do anymore. I give up!
I would like to know if anyone has had problems with ovarian cysts while taking Humira. Or any kind of female reproductive system problems. I had a hysterectomy last year and the people from Humira sent a letter to my gyno to ask if the hysterectomy had anything to do with Humira. They claimed the reason they contacted my gyno was because I had a Humira pen malfunction and had to call the company to get it replaced. I informed the company that I was having a hysterectomy and although I needed the pen replaced, I was in no hurry because I had to stop taking it 2 weeks before surgery. My view on that is…why would they contact my gyno if Humira didn’t possibly cause a problem like this before?
Comment by James on 16 December 2008:
I have crohns disease and was put on humira after I had Intestinal surgery done. I was on the medication for near 5 months and began to get these large scaly spots on my legs and stomach. I went to my GI doctor he said it had nothing to do with my crohns. I then went to a dermatologist and she said just by looking at it, that it was psoriasis. She did not no how I got psoriasis while on humira because it is a drug used for psoriasis. She gave me many different cream and such and it did nothing but get worse. I then went to get another opinion from another dermatologist and she did a biopsy and said it was a reaction to some type of medication, the only meds i was on was humira so she took me off it. A month went by and it com even worse my entire legs wore covered my stomach was covered I have three large spot on my head that look like giant scabs and my hands and arms were being to be the same. I then went to university hospital to see a dr. who deals with just psoriasis because the dermatologist i was seeing said thats what it looked like but her biopsy said otherwise. I went to university hospital met with the doctor and he took pictures and did a biopsy and later told me it came back suggestive to psoriasis. I was not going to be able to be treated by him because he worked out of cleveland and i lived way to far away to travle there everyday. I went back to my the last dermatologist i saw before him, she was the one who referred me to him and began a light box treatment. The light box as helped keep my legs from getting large scales on then but new spots keep coming. I met with her yesterday and she told me that she told me that she had talked to my GI doctor and he had found that there were more cases like mine. She said that the light box is helping the spots i have but not curing it because i keep getting new spots. She told me that she thinks the humira did this to me and she is going to do another biopsy and call out to university hospital and talk to the doctor i saw there. She said she is very confused and does not no what to do because she has never seen anything like this. And from the conversation me and her had last it sounds like she is going to want me to be a ginii pig for them. They have no idea what to do to calm this reaction down. Mean while i have to walk around with this rash all over my body which is extremely embarrassing because of HUMIRA. This has been going on since august it is almost Christmas and they still can not figure out how to stop it. I struggle to get up every morning it is so hard to go about my day with this on my body and knowing that no one has an answer for it. I thank my doctor everyday because she is working hard at it but can not come up with any answers. If anyone can help me please do
Comment by john on 15 January 2009:
can humira cause
pseudomonas eruginosa infection
Comment by BEVERLEY on 19 January 2009:
I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and have had since aged 2, I’m now 44, I was looking forward to going on humira as I read some people had found some good results, my arthritis count did start going down, so I was pleased, but I got an itchy leg then an itchy foot, the next thing I have a full blown fungal infection, I take a course of anti biotics and fungal tablets and it goes, I have another shot with Humira, and here we go again, so I thought I may not have given the first infection time to go from my body, I wait a month all clear, I have just had a jab today and my leg and foot is itching like mad, I know it’s gonna be a fungal infection again? Something just is not right.
Comment by betty on 19 January 2009:
humira, killed my husband december 5,2008.
Comment by betty on 21 January 2009:
My husband took humira shots for 3 months and was hospitalized in july with fungus infections and was in and out for 5 months until he died.
Comment by Emma on 23 January 2009:
I’m really sorry to hear about all these cases, and I must admit they scare me. I’ve had AS (a form of arthritis) since I was 14 (now 31) and have been on Humira for almost two years, and I’ve never felt better.
Comment by kmiller on 25 January 2009:
I’ve been taking Humira for 4 months now. After going away at the outset my plaque psoriasis has completely come back . As for those with infections I recommend taking colloidal silver. Available in all health food stores. It’s so effective it’s used to purify water in the International Space Station. If it’s good enough for the astronauts then it’s good enough for me!
Comment by David on 13 February 2009:
I took Humira in about 2004 for 3 months. I was diagnosed with an incurable form of lymphoma in December of 2005. I blame Humira.
Comment by Tom on 15 February 2009:
My story is the exact same as David’s. I was diagnosed with incurable Lymphoma in 5/2008 after taking Humira..
Comment by Lisa on 16 February 2009:
My husband was on Humira for Severe RA for close to 2 years, he stopped when he was diagnosed with pancreatitis, shortly after this he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. They removed part of his pancreas, stomach, intestines and several cancerous lymph nodes. he is only 47 years young.
Comment by ruth on 7 March 2009:
I have Crohns disease. I was on Remicade for years wich I ended up with pneumonia . After that I was put on Humira which I had to stop. Sence I was put on Remicade I have had to put up with headaches, muscles and joints huting, and the lower part of my back hurting. My doctor said that it was nothing to worry about. The headaches have been pretty severe that I have passed out several times and blacked out several times to. I feel that we should come back and sue the company for what has happen to us.
Comment by Dan on 11 March 2009:
Has anyone had issues with maintaining body temperature, or secondary Hypothermia? I feel flu like symptoms and feverish but when I take temperature I range from 94-97?
Comment by William on 13 March 2009:
My 66 year old sister has taken Humira for several years for rheumatoid arthritis. Four months ago , while checking for histoplasmosis , the doctors found she did have histoplasmosis but also found a tumor in her lung. The tumor was removed but now the cancer is throughout her body and she has been given less than a month to live.
Comment by jan on 20 March 2009:
My fiance too has expienced scaly skin and blistered skin and has not gone away. The doctors ignore us as have the “COMMERCIALS”!! we have to look at those that say how great “HUMIRA” is. They forget to say how many people when it was experimental the doctors used it on us. Maybe They have been altered to now say we now should have never been given this drug as a guineu pig but now have to live with it. having it ruined our lives. He was a guineu pig for Chrone’s diisease and will never be the same. Is there an attorney out there for us? My fiance will never be the man I met and I have empathy for anyone that reads this that has been in the same boat. It’s not fun. HUMIRA has brought us closer together but for the wrong reasons.!!
Comment by Fran on 25 March 2009:
I have been on Humira for about three years and after about the first year the bottom of my foot began to itch. I thought Oh gosh, I have some kind of yukey athletes feet or something. Went to dermatologist who said it was just a generic allergic reaction to something. After many creams lotions, steroid creams and all that, it is still spreading and only on one foot. It will start to heal and I get exited only to have it start to peel/scale again and turn red. It is embarrassing and it will not go away. I did not even link it to Humira until I just happened onto this site. I don’t know what to do about it.
Comment by Lisa on 28 March 2009:
I have currently started on Humira for Crohn’s Disease. I am nervous about taking it since I am a former Remicade patient and had a stroke while on it.
Comment by Todd on 29 March 2009:
I have RA but was put on Enbrel to treat a photopathic rash (hives and rash from sun exposure). It didn’t help much with the hives but my RA really went into remission. Started in 2003. Switched to Humira in 04 because of some shortness of breath. Dec. 08 dx with Non hodgkins lymphoma, mets to my long bones. I blame Humira. When I asked my doctors if they wanted to report it they all said it was an administrative nightmare with 24 pages of paperwork and they said it wouldn’t matter. If we don’t report the cancers, who will?
Comment by Kelly on 10 April 2009:
Had allergic (skin) reaction to Embrel. Been on Humira for past 2 years, developed athletes foot on just one foot which later turned into toe fungal infection, unable to clear it up for over a year. Mentioned to my Rhumatologist (12/08) that I had heard Humira was reported to cause toe fungal infections, she said she hadn’t heard of this. I see above FDA reported fungal infection warning to health care providers as recently as 9/08… interesting, isn’t it?
Comment by Toni on 16 April 2009:
I have been taking Humira for approximately 4 years and just recently was diagnosed with MS and Lupus. I am curious to know whether anyone else has been diagnosed with this problem. The rheumatologist had no idea that this could be one of the side effects, and I have numbing on my left side which I went to my family doctor for. Thank god she ordered an MRI which suggested MS. I was then referred to a neurologist and after more tests and another MRI (2hours) it was confirmed that I do indeed have MS. Also vitamin D levels are down so I have to take a supplement for that. I had numbing 2 years ago which everyone said was nothing and no tests were ordered, even though I asked for them and told them the family history of MS. They stated that this did NOT run in families and I would be fine. Apparently not. The neurologist said that any TNF blocking agents could cause MS. Why did the rheumatologist not know this? I am seriously upset that the doctors do not listen to patients when they have concerns then try to cover their butts. Anyone with further information would be greatly appreciated. Now I can hardly move because there is nothing else to take for the arthritis and the drug that he wants to put me on is not covered by insurance. Now I have pay for the MS meds and get the third degree by the office staff about being in pain and needing them to do something about it.
Comment by Ramie on 22 April 2009:
I am a 30 year old female with severe psoriactic arthritis since age 18. Why is humira still on the market? i just started taking it again but after this site I am starting to worry.
Comment by John on 26 April 2009:
Toni on 16 April 2009: Your story hit a nerve. I have hep C, was in remission, been on Humira 3+ years. Had to stop due to hep virus’ return. 2.25Million Viral Load, was ZERO!
Since stopping the Humira, My Psoriasis is back in force & I can barely walk, my joints hurt so bad. My upper back & neck feel like they are on fire and broken. My Right arm & shoulder are useless. My hands feel broken.
I am afraid I may have MS. I see doc tomorrow! Wish me luck all!
I don’t understand it if it is so, But I will Deal with it!
Comment by Lois on 26 April 2009:
I am a 49 year old female with psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis, and ulcerative colitiis. I was on Humira for at least 2 years and now have been diagosed with MS. There is no family history of MS. I am on meds for MS. Both the dermatoligist and neurologist say that Humira may have caused the MS. I would like to know if others have a similar experience.
Comment by Bear on 5 May 2009:
I have psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis been on Humira for several years. I seemed to get a horrid pain in my neck all the time after taking shots for a while. When I questioned the RA doc about it he said what I was feeling was the damage that had been don by the arthritis in my neck now that the inflammation was gone because of taking Humira. About 5 month ago I got something like the flu, low grade temp. and constant ringing in the ears and it has never left. My family doc cannot figure it out from blood tests, but he did find a urinary infection. So I took antibiotics for a week, but I am still sick all the time losing energy feeling ill. I too have had temp from 97 to 100 except a couple of times it shot up to 103. I went back to the RA DR and informed him that since I have not been taking the shots for several months my neck does not seem to hurt now. So he contradicted himself from what he told me the first time. Now he says that the Humira would not cause me to have pain in my neck. I told him that I am having flu like symptoms and problems finding out what is wrong… all he said is that he wanted me to start taking Humira every 15 days instead of every 10 days like I was.
HELP!! Can someone tell me what one of these infections is like? I need some kind of treatment to get over whatever is wrong with me.. I cannot work and I do not know where to turn. I am not going to start the Humira shots again… I am pretty sure it is at the base of my illness. The FDA should be sued for allowing this kind of thing to be approved so quick while they know it is a big concern. I think the medical community, drug mfg’s and FDA stick together to make a big pie for themselves.
Comment by Toni on 6 May 2009:
First of all, John, I hope everything went well. Second, I think we can all come to the conclusion that while the drug does seem to work, the doctors that prescribe them don’t know enough about them to hand them out. I am seriously starting to believe that the drug companies and doctors get major kickbacks for using their drugs and do not do enough research on them. I dont understand if the neurologist know this drug can cause MS why do the rheum or other doctors that prescribe them not know this could happen or what signs to look for. I just dont know anymore!! And Bear, the only thing I used to feel from the Humira shots was a migraine headache. I am not sure about all the others. I dont remember having fevers. My neck does hurt but he keeps telling me that that was my muscles and he wanted me to go for physical therapy. I am so glad they like to keep taking money somehow. LOL. Anyhow Hope all turns out well for everyone. I wish you all luck.
Comment by Christine on 10 May 2009:
My brother-in-law has had psoratic arthritis for 4yrs (he’s 30 now). He has tried Humira, Enbrel and is currently on Remicade. Humira was stopped due to blood in the stools about 6 months ago. He was recently hospitalized with diverticulitis and a hole in his colon which caused a severe infection in his abdominal cavity. He had to have part of his colon removed and now he has a colostomy bag for 2 mos until the infection clears up then he has to have another surgery to put his colon back together again. He has been in the hospital for 9 days and has to stay another week at least. Has anyone heard of similar problems after taking these meds? I can’t believe there could be any other reason for his condition other than the medications since most people in his condition are elderly. I have tried to talk to his doctors about the possibility this was caused by the medications, but they won’t speculate even though the FDA warning labels list diverticulitis as a rare but severe side effect.
Comment by Toni on 12 May 2009:
Once again, the doctors either don’t know or are trying to save their own butts. I don’t understand why there is nothing that can be done about it!!!. Good luck to your brother Christine. Hopefully he will find a doctor that WILL tell him that his condition is a direct result from taking the TNF Blockers.
Comment by Carolyn R on 19 May 2009:
Has anyone suffered any ear infections that may be linked to Humira? Husband has had infections that won’t clear up after being on it almost a year? Have not seen this discussed…ENT says fungal, looks like that could be a problem on other parts of the body, any thoughts?
Comment by Kathy on 20 May 2009:
My daughter diagnosed with Crohn’s at age 13 – 5 years ago. Remicade during years 2,3,4 but then had an allergic reaction. Switched to Humira but is off it since January because of flu-like symptoms (similar reaction with Remicade but that wasa only every 8 weeks instead of every 2 weeks). She also has treatment resistant bipolar disorder and neurological symptoms that include fluttering eyes, twitching and shaking right hand and numbness on the top of her right leg. A doctor suggested that this may be onset of MS. I hvae found news reports of studies linking MS to anti-TNF meds. Anyone else heard of a link between Crohn’s and MS?
Comment by Julie on 7 June 2009:
My husband was on Humira for Crohn’s for the past two years. He has had a lot of issues with foot pain and toe fungus. He just stopped taking Humira two weeks ago because his triglycerides were 599. After talking with the Accredo specialist, he learned that this was a side effect of the drug, which led to the discontinuation. Now, his two middle toes on each foot are turning dark brown. I was wondering if anyone else has had any of these side effects. Not sure what the brown toes means, but he will be seeing the doctor tomorrow. I am very concerned.
Comment by Karen on 9 June 2009:
After having been diagnosed with psoriasis for 2 years and no clearing I went to a second doctor. I was put immediately on Humira, oh it cleared up my skin however 1 week after the first injection I started developing Muscle weakness and Pain. I told the doctor and was told to give it time. I did for a month by my 3rd injection i was telling Abbott my symptoms, they told me that they had a few complaints but never like mine to stop taking it and they would do more research and get back to me but stopp taking the Humira) I stopped however never heard back fro them or the Doctor). With in 2 more weeks, I couldn’t hardly walk, talk, work or get around. I took myself to the hospital was admitted for 8 days, had to have a muscle biopsy, to determine what the cause was, my labs were off the chart and all the doctors sited Humaria as the cause. I felt fine until week one on Humira. It has been 7 weeks now and after my 8 days in the hospital, a month recouping at home and major med bills and medication, physical therapy and a long haul to return to what I hope will be back to normal, I am still not walking right, have no mobility in my shoulders, have difficulty talking and eating and have to see numerous doctors that I never heard of before all this. I have now been told that I have an auto immune disease that is hereditary , strange no one on either side of my family have it or heard of it. I am sure that taking the Humira ruined my life and hopefully I will make a full recovery as i pray that this is not what medicine is suppose to do to someone. This is all too much for me at times however, If I can prevent one person for going thru this than I feel that I have done my job as a human being. The doctors and labs sure enjoy the rewards of our losses. I wasw told by my dermotologist that she could put me on prednisone to stop the muscle pain but that would make my skin go crazy. I have been on prednisone since i was in the hospital and am on round 2 at higher doses now for a longer period of time. Hummm I think i would of taken the chance and not have been in the hospital and everythign else i have been thru and that is where i am at now anyway. Hope this helps someone else.
Comment by joe on 10 June 2009:
my wifes was on humira for about 2 months she got a rash all over her body after being in the sun now her joints hurt her they are slowly going away but moving around noe only in hands, feet alittle and knees really bad they are maybe thinking lupus because some count was high i think it was a ANA test and also how long does this stuff stay in your body
Comment by joe on 10 June 2009:
im sorry she was on humira for 6 months now she has been off for 1 or 1.5 months
Comment by Gloria on 18 June 2009:
My husband was on humira for several years. Enbrel before that. The enbrel caused a rash so he was switched to humira. I wish we had never seen this drug. He developed severe breathing problems and no cause could be found. Stopped taking humira and he had a stroke within a couple of weeks. He has had several tias and a major stroke in June. This drug should be removed from the market immediately before it destroys anyone elses life.
Comment by Lisa on 23 June 2009:
I was diag for a.s. last fall after about 1yr of searching for diag. I started with mtx-and steroids. when that did not work-I graduated to enbrel-double site reaction-used medi pack-methpredisone and monthly shots of kenelog. Started Humira then suffered migranes and repeated thrush, rash on chest. My husband insisted I quit-but it was too late. Now I am unmedicated for a.s.-and ana is pos for lupus. I have tingling hands and feet when I exhale, get scared, cough, ect…. I have sortness of breath…having pulmonary test 7/1…colonoscopy 6/26 and neuro apt in july. I used Humira short of 3m. It is a black label drug…was not informed of the status….called Humira to report the issues……damage is done and I am worried for all of us who looked to this drug for relief…..I pray that the drug will be removed….too dangerous….and the risk is too great…nobody wants to admit or inform of the irreversable consequences.
Comment by Toni on 24 June 2009:
I am so sorry that everyone has gone through so much with this drug. I would be interested in a doctor getting on here and commenting and seeing what his comments would be. Are they informed of all the risks with this drug when they prescribe it to the general public. Who should be held accountable for this. Two years ago my rheumatologist should have known that when I was having symptoms of numbness and tingling that something neurologic was going on. Instead he says “It’s nothing, just increase your Folic Acid”. My question is that as the “general public” should we be informed of ALL the side effects or at least have physicians “well” informed from the drug companies about what to look for and what to do if something happens. I am now seeing a pain specialist because my “Former” rheumatologist does not know what to do. Funny that my Family doc just shakes her head when I tell her the stories about what I have been through. She has since gotten an appointment for me with another rheumatologist. Wish me luck.
Comment by ericka on 10 July 2009:
I have sever plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. I was 18 when I was diagnosed and I am turning 30 in a month.
I started Enbrel in 2004 when it was apart of the study for Psoriasis. It stopped working this year 2009. In March I started Humira. I have had no side effects, although my liver function test came back really elavated.
Has Humira or Enbrel been linked to liver failure?
Comment by Linda on 19 July 2009:
I had been on Enbrel and Methotrexate for many years for severe RA. In April 09 I started getting sick and very short of breath. When I finally saw a doctor I had Bronchial Pneumonia and was treated with Levequin and steroids through IV. Little did we know at that time I would test positive for Histoplasmosis. I am now on Sporanox for the Histo. The only RA med I take at this time is Celebrex and Aspirin. I am in terrible shape with lots of swelling, redness, and pain. This is in all joints.
What drug can I safely take for my RA now?? I checked out minocycline and can’t take it due to the Histo. What in the world can I take now so I can try and get my life back?????????
Linda
Comment by Chad on 23 July 2009:
I started taking humira last year. I was on Humira for only 8 months. My psoriasis cleared up completely. I had to stop taking Humira as I could no longer afford insurance. I’m 23 years old and in April of this year, 4 months after stopping Humira, I have developed a constant cough that never goes away. I also feel extremely tired and weak everyday. I have to take a nap half-way through my day to make it through. I used to be a very healthy man (prior military, always working out). Now I feel like Humira has something to do with my physical issues. I’m trying to get a better job with insurance so that I can get my condition checked out. I have now had the symptoms for 4 months non-stop. I do not smoke and only drink a beer or two, maybe twice a month.
Comment by Beverley on 26 July 2009:
I previously mentioned I got a skin rash, since then, my ankles have been swelling really bad, my GP said it was my RA, but when the rheumatologist saw me he sent me for an ECG and an echocardiagram, and xray and blood tests, he now tells me I have fluid on my lungs, which could indicate heart failure so I am undergoing more tests, I have never had any heart problems in 44 years and this is very worrying, I have now stopped taking Humira, not because my rheumatologist told me to, just because I cannot cope with anymore side effects.
Comment by George on 3 August 2009:
I have had Ankylosing Sponylitis for many years, I was put on Humira about 1.5 years ago and it worked great, after one year of usage I developed memory losses and seizures and have been seeing a neurologist for treatment. I had general fatique and peronality changes, also due to an MRI it appeared that I may have had a couple of minor strokes, possibly due to blood clots. As some of these issues might be related to the Humira I was taken off of the drug. It appears that there maybe an effect or maybe not, really cannot find information with others that have had similar disorders.
Comment by Parkash on 14 August 2009:
I have a close relative. He has suffered from Crohn’s for more than 25 years (got it since a young boy). Since a couple of years ago, he is also suffering from pyro-derma (wounds on the legs). Remicade didn’t help that much. For the last three months he is on Humira( first every two weeks; for the last two weeks once a week). It is helping in closing the wounds, however, he is getting completeley short of energy, and is now going through flue symptoms and fungus problems. Feels nausea most of thew time. Finds difficult to walk even a block and quite cumbersom to climb a few steps in the house stair-case. Could it be that Humira’s frequecy is increased, Humira itself or what?
Anyone who may have gone through or seen such an agony experience and would like to suggest/recommend some relief-giving measures?
Comment by Cara on 16 August 2009:
I am 44 years old and have had RA since I was 36. I have been taking Humira for 5 years. I believed it to be a great drug and honestly seldom had any flair ups with my RA while taking the drug. A couple of months ago I began to experience fatique and shortness of breathe. In June I had appt with RA Doc. I explained my symptoms to him and told him I was feeling really bad that day. I told him I was having trouble breathing and my chest felt heavy. My husband had driven me to appt. due to my fatique. He told me to see my PCP. Two days later I was rushed to hospital with pericarditis. I had surgery to remove fluid around my heart and lungs. The lining around my heart looked like a orange rind. Heart surgeon reported that he had never seen anything like it. I was immediately taken off Humira. I was told this evidently had been going on for sometime due to the damage. My question is what do doctors get paid for these days. I am so angry. I could have died and my RA doctor just shrugged it off and told me to see my PCP? I agree that doctors are either not informed of the potential hazards of these drugs or do not care as long as they get their cushy vacations from the drug companies. Something has to be done about this. If drug companies can spend the money to advertise the drug then they need to have the money to spend when they screw up somones life. If anyone knows where to turn now or any suggestions, please let me know. I want my life back as normal as possible.
Comment by Judy on 24 August 2009:
My husband died 7 months after starting Humira one week after his 55 birthday from septis. Dr told me the night he died Humira was the only thing he was taking that could have destroyed his immune that fast. He was a waiting surgery for hip replacement. I have a lawyer and my case has been excepted. He also had a rash develope on his back.
Comment by Kathryn on 26 August 2009:
I am 30 years old and I have ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS, my first flare up was at age 19….I have also experienced complications with Iritis and Behcets disease…..After seeing about 4 Rheumatologists, I am still uncertain about taking these TNF blockers….My last visited Rheumy (which was today) became very annoyed with me b/c I still have not made a concrete decision about taking her suggested medication duo of Humira and Methotrexate…..I am absolutely scared to death to start this medication process, especially after reading all these posts…..If anyone out there has A S , please let me know about any kind of pain management or meds you are taking to help lessen the progression of this awful disease……All advice is greatly appreciated and welcome!!
Comment by Tom on 11 September 2009:
Wow! Although I realised there were potential problems with anti TNF’s, all these comments have got me worried now! I have been on Humira for almost two years for ankylosing spondylitis and up until a month ago, have never felt better. I now have constant headaches excactly as described by other humira users (extreme pain on one side of head and involving ear and jaw). Nothing seems to be able to lessen it much. I called the rhumatoligist nurse here in England who informed me that there was no way it could have been caused by humira after all this time and to see my GP to test for other causes! Not sure about that now after reading others’ comments who have experienced same thing it seems! Almost afraid to go off humira now since it seems other problems pop up after it is discontinued! What to do!!
Comment by tom on 11 September 2009:
kathryn, besides the humira, the only other drug that ever worked for me for AS was indomethicin. It is one of the older ones and can cause all kinds of stomach problems like ulcers etc . maybe should have stuck with it now! good luck to you – not sure what advice i would have about humira – sure worked well till i started getting horrible headaches!
Comment by Ashley on 20 September 2009:
Thanks for the website & all the honest comments, everyone. So sorry to hear about all of the problems your facing from taking this drugs that should help rather than add to your growing list of medical problems. My Rheumatologist suggested I begin Humira or Embrel ASAP, but after reading these comments, only ONE person on the whole list has benefited from Humira — I’m definitely going to pass!!!! I’d rather have RA and live!! Than take this medicine and be in worse shape than when I started! I’m in my early twenties, I have quite a lot to look forward to!!! Not worth the risk to me, AT ALL!!!
Thanks again everyone!
Comment by Donnie on 21 September 2009:
I am a physically fit 33 year old law enforcement officer who took humira for less than one year for RA. Last May, prior to taking humira, my annual physical was perfect. Three weeks ago, I was diagnosed with stage five kidney failure. I am in the process of receiving a kidney transplant. If anything can be learned from this, make your doctors check blood and urine at least quarterly to detect this issue before it gets too far.
Comment by Karen on 21 September 2009:
I have been on humira for 3 months and have had several lesions grow, including a mesenteric lesion, complex ovarian cyst and a bone lesion, since taking it. I already had something benign happening in my nodes which was probably contraindicated for a drug that is linked to lymphoma. I also have a hard time walking and it’s gotten worse while I was on the humira. At times, I’ve had to use a walker and lots of time, I’ve had to use the cane. I’m off the humira now so I can possibly have surgery for all my lesions. I am in pain and tired, but my head is clearer and I feel like I’m no longer living in a pond of quicksand.
Comment by Sherry on 28 September 2009:
I was diognosed with RA one year ago and after trying Methotrexate and others my Doc. put me on Humira in April 09. I went into complete remission and felt better than I ever felt until late July when I broke out in pustule psoriasis on my feet and hands. It was so bad I had to wear house slippers to work because I could not walk in regular shoes. I went to a new RA doctor who immediately said it was a reaction to the Humira, and he sent me to a Dermatologist to get treatment for it. The dermatologist said it was just plain ole psoriasis and Humira was a treatment to go home and take my injection….within 24 hours the pustules and blisters have came back with a vengence and I am back where I started. My new RA doctor was right and it definitly is a reaction to Humira. If I had came to this site before I may have saved some money on Doctor visits…..Now to find a new treatment for the RA that worked as well as the Humira without the terrible side effects…
Comment by Sarah on 6 October 2009:
I have had RA for 30 years. My doctor convinced me to try Humira. 4 hours after 1 shot, my legs began to swell. I called my Rheumatologist and was told that I was having a flair-up and to take steroids. I argued that it was more serious than that – but was spoken to like I was a child, or worse, a hypochondriac. I ended up in the emergency room the next day and was told that the swelling was from my sciatica. I went home and suffered with a leg that swelled up 10 inches in diameter. I could not walk, was vomiting, had a fever, had lumps on my legs. I went back to the emergency room a week later to be diagnosed with bilateral blood clots from my ankles all the way to my lungs. I also had a intramuscular hematomoa in my pelvis the size of a hot dog roll. It has been 5 weeks and I am still in bed – slowly recovering. I have now been told my kidneys are not working well. This drug is horrible. I am lucky to be alive. I hope a lawyer decides to sue Abbott Labs on all off our behaves.
Comment by Ken on 12 October 2009:
I have had Crohns since 1983. I am 50 years old. I finally decided to try Humira since I have only 5 feet of small intestine left after 2 surgeries. I discovered after a GI series i year ago the Crohns was back. After the 1st few 2 months on Humira I had another GI series done and the Humira was helping a lot. Last Sunday 10/4/09, I had a seizure. I am not sure it is from the Humira. I am getting tests done but worried. I am researching Humira and seizures.
Comment by David on 16 October 2009:
I was diagnosed with ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS about 7 years ago. I just turned 50. AS is horribly painful, but I have been managing it with anti-inflammatory meds – 15mg of Meloxicam (generic Mobic) and 3 grams of sulfasalazine daily. Also, the occasional weed to take my mind of it
My rheumatologist recently suggested Humira since I have been complaining about increased stiffness and pain. After reading the stories here I have decided that things have to get MUCH worse before I would consider a TNF med. The side-effects are just too scary.
This has been a real struggle for me, but I suppose we must all play the cards we are dealt. I wish folks well in their own battles.
Comment by Mary on 20 October 2009:
I have RA and have been on Humira for 3-4 years and have had no problems with it. Rheum Dr. put me on methotrexate and that made me really sick- could not leave the house for work- even lowering the dose of it did not help. I read all the paper work that came with my humira but have not had any side effects. Guess I am blessed
Comment by Terry on 20 October 2009:
I have been on Humira since Dec.2009. I have psoraitic arthristis. It cleared my skin, my joints no longer hurt or swell, my deformity in my fingers and toes has stopped. it has been a miracle drug for me. My blood test are all positive! I found eating healthier food and getting exercise, particulary stretching helps alot!
Comment by Andre on 27 October 2009:
My mother began taking Humira for RA. A short while later developed Mantle cell Lymphoma. RA Doctor recklessly advised her not to worry about the potential cancer side effects stating it was a one in a million chance. His downplaying convinced her to take it. Now we are dealing with the consequences.
Comment by Abby on 3 November 2009:
I have recently had two episodes whole body hives, body turns very bright red, dizzy, awlful burning hands and feet, and swollen hands in the middle of night. The first episode included swollen throat and breathing difficulties. These occured about 10-12 days after taking Humira. I have been told that since it did not happen with 10 minutes – 2 hours after an injection that it is not Humira. But I have read it has a 14 day 1/2 life. Been taking Humira now for 1 year. Has this happened to anyone else?
Comment by Stefanie on 6 November 2009:
I have been on Humira for about 6mo before that I was on Embrel(6mo). I initially got relief from the Humira for my RA but the last 2 months I have been having some of the symtoms metioned. The foot fungus on one foot only and toe nail fungus. My jointts are feeling worse especially my knees, left knee keeps swelling. Pain that feels like it is deep in my bones, neck pain, memory loss. I want to stop the medication but am afraid of what will happen If I do just stop. Will I have a seizure??
Comment by Heather on 8 November 2009:
I have had Crohn’s disease for over ten years now, with an average of two to three flare ups a year. Have been on several rounds of prednisone and now have bone loss as a result. After a couple of years on Azathioprine I had lymph node swelling, malaise and it had lost its effectiveness on the Crohns and I suffered a flare up that had me couch bound for months. My specialist intimidated me into taking Humira last May. The Humira HAS relieved my Crohn’s symptoms 100%; but I wonder, at what cost? Since being on it I have progressing joint pain in my knees, elbows, toes and fingers; sometimes excruciating if I move the wrong way. I’m always tired, and often have trouble concentrating and suffer severe bouts of depression. I feel helpless, as both my specialist and family doctor refuse to believe it’s the humira and treat me like a child. Now, I have been very, very sick with the flu for over a week. The gland in my right jaw below my ear has been sore and stiff for months now, but the doctors dismiss that as nothing. At one point, the gland was so sore I wasn’t able to eat. I wonder what has to happen to my condition before the doctors allow me some leeway in choosing my own therapy. I feel like a guinea pig. My specialist is intimidating, but I don’t dare lose him as I will not have another one in this area. I feel like a prisoner in my own body.
Comment by Leslie on 9 November 2009:
I’ve had RA since 1985 and was on methotrexate for over 20 years with excellent results. Then it began to be less effective with more and more flares. Then I was on Humira for 4 months then developed “pneumonia” in October 08. Stopped Humira immediately. Antibiotics would stop the symptoms but they would return after a week or 2. Doctors tried different antibiotics including infused with same result/ Pulmonogist checked for acid refux thinking it might be aspirated pneumonia. Then a brochosopy that had negative results. Pneumonia returned again and doctors thought it could be the methotrexate so quit that altogether. That worked for a couple of months so Humira was continued after 8 months from the original pneumonia. And returned to Humira for 4 months. All this time I had excellent energy level, no fever, no chills, no pain, etc only coughing with typical pneumonia spit up. In October 09 developed pneumonia again this time with difficulty breathing. All this while having regular visits with my rheumatologist. She knew I was being treated for pneumonia but never once suggested it could be the Humira. The pulmonologist decided to do a lung biopsy and I have stage 4 non Hodgkins large B cell lymphoma. Why didn’t the rheumatologist suggest the pneumonia could be related to the Humira. I think the pneumonia was actually the cancer. All I ever heard from her or her office was to be careful about infections.
Comment by kathy on 19 November 2009:
i was on humira for about 6 months last year..i stopped using it because i had a severe flu like cold every couple of weeks and developed diverticulitis…i had no idea that a medication could do something like this..it has been a year since i stopped the humira and am sick all the time..it seems like it may have ruined my immune system..where should i start to find out what is causing all this sickness..i go to the doctor and they treat the syptoms and it comes back after 3 weeks or so…everyone keeps making comments..like your sick all the time..i feel so weak and tired and tired of complaining…
Comment by Teri on 19 November 2009:
I am 44 and was diagnosed w/ JRA when I was 17. I was on Humira for 2 years. I had to stop medication before having a left carpal tunnel surgury. When I tried to go back on the drug all hell broke loose. I developed right side, my appendics were removed with some kind of abnormal growth on it. My nose swelled and I had nasal inflamation went to ent he performed surgery to remove excess tissue that completely covered my nasal Pharnax. After that I developed Shingles, 6 times. I stayed off all RA drugs for almost a year. Then they put my on Orencia, Got shingles twice and felt as if my symptons increased so had to stop it. Now I am finacally broke from meds. I have a hard time finding anyone who knows my drug and it is very frustrating when you have side effects and know one cares. Then you read all of this and I know many people are dealing with the same thing.
Comment by David on 19 November 2009:
While being treated for psoriasis ( embrel injections) i contacted
follicular lymphoma.Now being treated at md anderson .
Comment by maureen on 19 November 2009:
My daughter age 37 years has tried all medication which bad side effects for her chronic AS. She is now on humera. She is suffering with flu symtons, and is now feeling so tired. Her ears are affected. Iritis in both eyes. One eye now blind. She is having the injection every 9 to 1o days and feels so unwell. I see her suffering and do not know what to do or where to go. Can anyone suggest what to do or who I can see before it is too late. Of course the doctors say they do not know what to advise. Just keep taking the Humera, they said, because there is nothing else.
Comment by Susan on 23 November 2009:
My husband began taking Humira in June of 2008 for his AS, which he has had for more than 35 years. He also takes Mobic. Within the first month after taking Humira he noticed muscle weakness. He also began left arm tremors within weeks of his first shot. In May of 2009, his lab work showed he has hypercalcemia, hyperparathyroidism and polycythemia. The pamphlet for Humira shows parathyroid disease as an adverse reaction to the meds. He now has a tumor on his parathyroid that needs removed, the calcium is leaching out of his bones into his blood and urine. He has also noticed a shortness of breath. He feels like he is aging rapidly, yet also has received so much pain relief from the Humira that he is reluctant to go off it. His doctor suggested he change from Humira to Enbrel.
Comment by billie on 30 November 2009:
ive been on 6 different pills and they made me sick. ive been on humira, orencia which made my blood prussure go to 254over225. i just quite embrel it makes me feel offel and i have briises all over me. now im told i dont have arthitirs i have fibermalga and should have never been put on the medacations. what can i do?
Comment by Iris on 13 December 2009:
I was diagnosed with RA and the doctor prescribed Humira. After reading all the negative comments about Humira I decided not to take the medicine. Why will someone take a medicine that side effects are worse than the illness itfself. I will be looking for a naturalist instead of taking this toxic medicine.
So sorry for all of you who contacted cancer, fungus, and Ms. This doesn’t seem right. I don’t understand how the FDA allows these kinds of medicines in the market
Comment by Kathy on 16 December 2009:
My husband was on Enbrel for a couple years and his doctors decided to prescribe Humira. He took the first dose on December 18, 2006. He mentioned to me several time that he didn’t feel “right” after the injection. On January 21, 2007, he died. I will always believe he would be with me today if he hadn’t taken that first and only dose of Humira.
Comment by kaycee on 16 December 2009:
after reading comments on this site i am still so undecided about taking enbrel as i have it sitting in my fridge ready to use and really hoping for some relief from my RA what do you think female 44yrs.
Comment by HanooN on 17 December 2009:
I’m 29 years old diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease in 2007 was in Ramicade for about 8 months, developed allergic reaction to it . I was put on Humira since August 2009. I noticed my memory is weakening, I forget many these, flue like symptoms. I feel this memory loss linked to Humira .I ‘m always sharp until, I started Humira. Any thoughts? What would it happen if I suddenly stop Humira ?
I
Comment by sara on 17 December 2009:
I have been on Humira for about 3 years, with no problems, these are like any other “drug” unfortunetly no doctor can know how a patient will react to these or any other drug. Im sorry for Kathy’s loss, but for me the Humira is a godsend for my RA. My close friend takes enbrel and it has done wonders for her. For some its a miricle for others…not. They cant pull it off shelfs if it helps so many . Kaycee I too are 44yrs. and female
Comment by Elle on 22 December 2009:
Dan, yes I have experienced problems regulating my temperature since taking Humira. I often feel like I am overheating and I never experienced this prior to taking this drug. I am so relieved that I saw your comment, because I’ve been thinking I’ve been all alone with this. I can barely tolerate summer months anymore. It has affected my ability to do sports or workout.
I have also experienced chronic sinus infections and ear infections since taking the drug. I stopped Humira in Feb. 2008, after taking it for 7 months on a weekly basis.
Comment by Lewis on 25 December 2009:
I took Humira for a year. I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Mantle Cell Lymphoma and given six months to live. I had a Stem Cell Transplant in 2007 but still suffer over this drug. Are there enough people out there willing to file a lawsuit over this drug causing these cancers and killing people? If there are, let us know and we will start the case.
Comment by Sheri on 1 January 2010:
I have RA and was prescribed Humira. I had a severe psoriatic reaction that I’m still working on fixing. It’s been 7 months. Have had to take painkillers since this started. Afraid of what to do next.
Comment by Jason on 9 January 2010:
I have crohn’s disease and have been on Humira for 2 years or so.
Originally it did a good job, but now it doesn’t do much. And I have developed a bad cough. I am a theater singer so this cough interferes with my performance sometimes. I am thinking of discontinuing the Humira since it doesn’t help anymore.
Comment by Graeme on 10 January 2010:
I took Enbreal for a few years with average results. My doctor started me on Humira in 09. In Nov 09 I was diagnosed with GBS that I am still going through. Switching from Enbrel to Humira was the only change in my life. Has anyone else heard of GBS cases caused from Humira?
Comment by Kristi on 11 January 2010:
I have been on Humira since Sept 2009. On Christmas I started feeling stomach pressure,bloating, and extreme hunger, and exteme back pain. For two weeks the docs thought it was GERD related to my ulcerative colitis. I finally had pancreatic enzymes done and they were thru the roof, CT scan revealed Pancreatitis. I am 27 years old and not a big drinker….how would I get pancreatitis?! I am convinced it is from the Humira, Azathiorine and Cortecosteroids. Has anyone else had these issues?? I am about ready to tell my GI docter that I am stopping the Humira immediately no matter what he thinks, before I get any other side effects from this.
Comment by GailC on 12 January 2010:
I started Humira on July 8, 2009 and at that time all of my blood work was normal. Blood work done on November 17th showed a remarkable increase in my liver enzymes which continued to increase over the next several weeks. A liver biopsy was then done and I have been diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis. I stopped Humira after the blood work done on the 17th and my enzymes leveled off on the blood work done on December 28 before starting medications for the autoimmune hepatitis. I have found one case study on the internet where Humira has been linked to autoimmune hepatitis and am wondering if any one else has experienced this problem?
Comment by kimberly w. on 14 January 2010:
After failed MTX therapy due to liver damage, I began Humira injections, 40 mg every 2 weeks in 8/2009. In November 2009 I became very ill with MRSA (skin and systemic) so my PCP and Rheumy took me off my Humira and Plaquenil. So, not DMARDS or TNF blockers for me at this juncture. Sucks!!!!!
Comment by graeme on 19 January 2010:
I took Enbreal with average results. My doctor started me on Humira in 09. In Nov 09 I was diagnosed with GBS in late 09 that I am still going through. Switching from Enbrel to Humira was the only change in my life. Has anyone else heard of GBS cases caused from Humira?
Comment by noeleen on 26 January 2010:
im am a pa sufferer am on humira every 10 days took embrel before it almost finished me i find humira very good of course your immuns system will be low on it but im monitored with bloods and im vigalent with any infections id be lost without humira
Comment by cyberpie on 28 January 2010:
My daughter who just turned 21 is on humira, she has had no symptoms and her plaque psoriasis is totally gone, she only takes a shot once a month, may I ask how many shots a month were most of you taking? and by the way when the Dr. started her on Humira he never told her it was a study, is this ilegal?
Comment by Patricia on 28 January 2010:
how many shots a month are you guys taking?
Comment by Unknown on 30 January 2010:
I work as a case manager for Humira and heard a lot of great things about it. Yes, every medication has it’s side effects. When I speak with patients, it seems like they can not live without this medication. Many people say “Humira is GOD sent”, some patient stated that they were bedbound and now they are able to walk. I am sorry to hear that Humira did not work for some of you, but i hear great things about Huimra on a daily basis and I am proud to work for this product.
Comment by Christine on 6 February 2010:
I just took my 79yr. mother to see the breast surgeon, and she will have surgery Feb. 16,2010. My mother has complained of shortness of breath, rash on her nose and cheek, and the docters just ignore this. Mom called me this morning and said she is not taking her Humira, due to all the effects she read, and believes this med has caused her cancer and all other systems, I truly hope that by going cold turkey will not cause additional problems for her…Never once did the doctors take her complaints seriously
Comment by Linda on 6 February 2010:
My friend just phoned me from the hospital – He has Chrons and also some joint problems with it,now severe abdominal pain. He went to the ER and upon examination they find generalized diverticulitus. He is asking me to find out if he can take steroids (they are suggesting this treatment) along with Humera which he has been on for about 4 months. He felt great at first with the Humera but now doesn’t. Does anyone know if steroid tx is safe with Humera?
Comment by Gary on 14 February 2010:
I developed severe plaque psoriasis at 12 years of age and severe psoriatic arthritis at 17. I’m now 56. I’ve had every poison used by the medical community to treat psoriatic complications and have had numerous surgeries for joint replacement and joint fusion. I’ve had numerous skin cancers to deal with as a result of ultraviolet light therapy.
I was on Enbrel for 5 years and was switched to Humira after it stopped working. I’ve had extreme rashes break out from head to toe, with a clear fluid ozzing from my pores. The docs at the ER tried to tell me it was psoriasis. Bull! I’m an expert on psoriasis, much more than they are. My lungs have been filling with fluid over the past 3 months.
I have no faith in any of the doctors and would advise everyone to be their own advocate should you have one of the diseases Humira is being used for. Scour the internet, read everything. Keep an open mind and don’t blindly follow or listen to the typical MD bull s*#@. They really don’t know and can’t honestly answer any questions regarding these TNF drugs. We ARE the guinea pigs, even though these drugs are labled for our diseases.
The problem I see is that there is nobody to track these many varied complaints and sort out what might be connected to this drug. The Abbott Pharm Co. should have an online board or forum, staffed by knowing specialists, where all of these complaints can be compiled or addressed. My insurance pays the $2,376 each month for Humira, so I know they got the bucks to treat our concerns and listen to what we have to say. But no…they’ve already calculated what the class-action lawsuit will cost them and have set the price of the med to cover this and still give them profit.
I’m 2 weeks past-due for my injection and I’m having a hard time taking it. True, it has helped me have a few “normal” years without the torment, pain and heart-breaking agony caused by psoriasis. But, ultimately, I now must decide if I want to go any further down this road and perhaps pay with my life. There are to many unexplained or unaddressed side effects. Wish me luck, because that’s all I’ve got.
Comment by John on 19 February 2010:
I have been on humira 2.5 yrs. every other week dose, severe pain in feet and various other places since last summer. Problem walking general moving at times, nite sweats at times too and lump in throat hard to swallow. Struggle through work. Noticed extreme problems few days before next dose. Doctor says: must be an increase of my crohns symptoms so now on weekly dose since last November. Now, feet pain, swelling ,wrist hurts, hands hurt, feet numbness. asked to see neurologist. I have noticed 1 website saying humira can lead to MS. Scared of my future and ability to work. 49yrs old
Comment by Katrina on 19 February 2010:
Linda-
I was on Prednisone (steroid) and was put on Humira. I have been taking both for about a month now and my GI believes it to be safe & I have not had any odd reactions with the 2. I hope this helps.
Comment by shirley on 20 February 2010:
I GOT VERY ILL IN JUNE 9,2009. IN FOR A TOTAL KNEE REPLACE,ENT. THE DOCTOR FOUND OUT THAT I HAD DEVELOPED AN INFECTION. SO I WAS PLACED ON ANTIBIOTICS
FOR 8 WEEKS, BEFORE THE 2ND SURGERY OF THE KNEE. IN JULY 24, 2009, I HAD SURGERY. THEN AROUND AUG. I DEVLOPED AN EYE INFECTION. WENT SEVERAL DOCTORS NO CURE. THEN I WENT TO PALMER EYE INST. HAD TWO SURGERIES. HAD CULTURES TEST , TBS TEST AND ALL OTHER TESTES DONE. DOCTOR COULD NOT TELL ME WHAT WAS THE CAUSE OF MY SWALLON LEFT EYE. FINALLY THEY CAE UP WITH INFECTION CALL GRANDUAL IMFORMATION. I WILL GO BACK TO PALMER EYE INT. IN APRIL. BUT THE LUMP IS STILL THERE.
Comment by Jovial on 23 February 2010:
About 9 years ago I was diagnost with RA and have been on different kinds of medications to treat this disease. Kineret,methotrecate,steroids and Humira. The first three medicians did not work and my doctor put me on this Humira. At first it seem to work but at times I would feel alot of pain in my knees and have swelling around my ankles. Then I broke out in hives, itching all over my body then find out I got this fungal infection and could hardly breathe and was hospitalized over night from not breathing. All this took place after being on the Humira
Comment by Katie on 8 March 2010:
I have scleroderma, raynaud’s phenomenon, blood clotting disorder and maybe have lupus.I have had iritis for over a month now.The Rheumatologist wants me to go on Humira he said that is the only medication left to cure the iritis.I had my doubts about the meds but when i called abbott to hear the side affects of the drugs ,i cried just thinking about taking this dangerous and deadly meds. I think i would rather lose an eye as to take this killer drug. Thank you all for your comments and the vital information on the page.
Comment by freddie on 9 March 2010:
My mother participated in clinical trials and was diagnosed with non-hodgkins lymphoma and was dead in a year. The shortness of breath, body aches and many of the other symptoms discussed were among her symptoms. She suffered multiple symptoms and extreme pain. I wouls suggest not taking the drug despite what the doctors recommend because they are not experiencing these devastating side effects. It is hard to find a lawyer who will except the case because no one has broken ground yet but the class action lawsuit will come it will just be to late for those who suffered first. But you know there are many blogs out there with people saying the same thing may be we should unite and a lawyer will take us all on or at least take it to our politicians and make them listen.
Comment by marion on 10 March 2010:
I have pa and have tried metho – no work and now I have been on Humira for 3 months. I have diffivulty breathing and have had a urine infection which has been treated with antibiotics and is not getting better.
My ra wants me to try enbrel next – after reading all you comments I think I will just tough it out with my pa and hope I have not done serious damage taking the Humeria.
Good luck all from this very scary drug and I agree it should be pulled from the shelves.
PPS My pa is so much better after being on Humeria but the rest of my body is not.
Comment by kristy on 10 March 2010:
My fiance has Chrohn’s diesease. he has been on steroids, and other medications they started him on Humira the 25th of February which was just a few weeks ago his second dose would be due on Friday the 12th. He has had to ER visits one for more stomache problems with his Chrohns and this last he was diagnosed with phenmonia and pleursy which is all on the right side. He does not smoke. Has never had any breathing issues or problems before. They are treating him with iv antibiotics again. And he is still in the hospital as of today. March 10th. When I calledinto the humira hotline. They passed me along 2 more times. The last lady I spoke too wanted to call his gasterentoroligist and see if he thought it could be caused from the humira injections. After looking online I have come across more instances with his exact symptoms after others took this medication. As of right now he is not going to be taking his second dose of the humira as his family dr. is against it at this time. But we re not sure what his gasterentoroligist will advise next. After some of the things I have read I am terrified that this may only be the begining of side effects from this drug. We have yet toi wait and see.
Comment by kristy on 10 March 2010:
I forgot to mention he was also showing signs of bruising and muscle weakness before his episode with the phnemonia and pleursy. I called in and they had told me that was common for the muslce weakness and not to worry abut the bruises unless they got bigger or we noticed tiny pinprick bruises.
Comment by kristy on 10 March 2010:
I read through the rest of the comments on this page and I am even more concerned now even though my fiance only took the fist 4 injections for his first does of humira so far and since he is already in the hospital after only weeks. After reading Kathy’s comment of her husband dying and only after one injection of humira. I am just wishing with all my heart my fiance never took this medication. My heart goes out to everyone that is suffering with these diseases and the side effects of these drugs. My fiance is only 36 years old and we have 2 children together 11 years old and 7. So many of the comments I have read are by so many people that are so young.
The more and more I read I keep wondering what other symptoms he has could be side effects of this drug. I know the phenmonia and the pleuresy could be, the bruisng and muslce weakness. He has also been having severe headaches and also high blood pressure. I was thinking the high blood pressure probably caused the headaches. Both seem to be worse the past few weeks though.
Comment by Ian on 12 March 2010:
I have suffered with Psoriasis for over 35 yrs and tried almost every thing avaliable, now my consultant wants me to try Humira, after reading comments on here think will give it a MISS, it seems possible that it creates more problems than it solves,I wish you all well Psoriasis at the end of the day is not fatal.
Comment by Kelly on 13 March 2010:
I started taking Humira on June 08 for Crohns disease. I did fine for about 1 yr, but the drug actually did not help me much past 5 or 6 months in terms of maintaining a remission. I am now much worse off than I ever was to begin with in that Humira has given me Mutiple Scelrosis disease in Aug 09. By the time my symptoms appeared it was too late. I have developed several lesions that now has me very disabled. I have seen several Neurologists at the Cleveland Clinic and in my home town. These doctors have all told me that Humira is too blame. In my opinion, any of the Anti tnf drugs is not safe to take. If and I mean if you have to take these drugs then take for the shortest possible time to induce a remission and then off the drug. I would love to talk with others who have been diagnosed with MS from humira.
Comment by Kristy on 13 March 2010:
My fiance was released on the 12th from the hospital his x rays now show nothing that was there when he was admitted on the 7th. They treated for phnemonia an d pleuresy. He is still on antibiotics and pain medications. The pain in his right side has still not went away. His dr. seems to be unsure what is wrong and has him coming back in a week or two to check him. And has put him off work for the next 10 days.
Comment by kevin on 14 March 2010:
I have taken humira for 5 years. It helped for awhile but i began developing what appears to have developed sqaumus? cells.when i quit humira at my Dr’s request,the lesions seemed to ease up,however after about a month,they returned with a vengence. I’m taking predisone as a maintenace drug and it seems to do a better job,however as i go along,i’ve been needed to increase my dosage.I’m concerned about it and i feel like lupus like effects and elbow and joint pain.worried….
Comment by Karen on 14 March 2010:
I was on Methotrexate and Humira last year and developed two large accessory spleens, an ovarian cyst, a large goiter with nodules and some kind of brain cyst. I also appear to have a few other things on pet scan that are mildly hot, and my uterus is consistently enlarged. Some of the things I mentioned grew larger or from nowhere while on Humira and Methotrexate (was on this longer and then with Humira), as they had been imaging me for the accessory spleens. Resolution was I stopped all meds to have three surgeries last year to have endometrial ablation and remove 1/2 thyroid, ovary and tube, two large accessory spleens. After being off all arthritis drugs for about six months, my last brain MRI shows empty sella with fluid – no cyst (I don’t know if this is an imaging issue or if somehow the cyst broke or dissipated). I also was getting lost in my car close to home, couldn’t think of words to say and hadn’t finished a book in a very long time. My neuro exam is good. After being off all RA drugs for the six months, these things are better. Downside, I can’t quiet my eye down and am in a lot of pain. I am trying something else starting next week. It says not to take if you have any tumors or growths… It’s a hard choice whether to sacrifice growing tumors, cysts or having enlarged organs (so far benign) or doing further damage to my eye, muscles and joints from my arthritis.
Comment by Kaz on 16 March 2010:
My son was taking Humira for severe Chrons Disease for two years but was left totaly unmonitored for the second year (no tests at all), he now has Reumatoid Arthritis, Lupus and Multicentric Castlemans Disease which is incurable, he is now terminaly ill, all thanks to Humira and negligence. M.y statement says it all, DO NOT TAKE HUMIRA unless your pain is worse than death.
Comment by cindy on 17 March 2010:
I had done much soul searching before starting Humira. My RA was very high, I tried many different drugs, nothing seemed to work. I tried Humira. I took only two shots. After the 2 shot, I had a large red rash at the injection site. My husband and I went out on Saturday to do our weekend chores. When arriving home, I was very exhausted, and my right shoulder hurt very bad. I was also having pain across my chest and back right shoulder. I assumed it was from lifting and walking alot. During the early morning hours, I had such pain in every joint area of my body, and could not walk. I had to call 911. I felt like I would be crippled for the rest of my life. I ran a slight temperature. The ER stated I was having some type of reaction, including swelling in my throat. They treated me for pain. I then visited my doctor and determined I had a servere reaction to the humira. I was basically swollen throughout my entire body. My feet were swollen like ballons. I am currently home in bed, waiting for this Humira to go out of my system. Taking Pain medication, preisone and whatever will work. I understand all these problems well. I hope everyone finds something that works for them, and protects them from other bigger problems. I don’t know how long this is going to take. I was glad to hear someone else is having a temperature issue. My temp since this situation occurred has been 96.1 to 96.8. No more Humira or any type drug again.