Name of the Procedure:

Common name:

• Humira injection

Technical or medical term:

• Injection, adalimumab, 20 mg (HCPCS code: J0135)

Summary

Adalimumab injection is a medical procedure where a healthcare professional administers a drug called adalimumab into a patient's body. This medication helps to reduce inflammation and is commonly used to treat various autoimmune conditions.

Purpose

The medical conditions it addresses include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, plaque psoriasis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

The main goal of the procedure is to manage symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness, thereby improving the patient’s quality of life and preventing disease progression.

Indications

• Rheumatoid arthritis: Persistent joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
• Psoriatic arthritis: Joint pain associated with psoriasis.
• Crohn's disease: Chronic inflammatory bowel symptoms.
• Ulcerative colitis: Persistent diarrhea and abdominal pain.
• Plaque psoriasis: Extensive, thickened, and scaly skin patches.
• Ankylosing spondylitis: Chronic back pain and stiffness.

Preparation

• No special fasting required.
• Continue taking prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
• Have a recent medical history and diagnosis documentation ready.
• Inform your healthcare provider of any allergies or current infections.

Procedure Description

1. The preparation area is sterilized.
2. The adalimumab dose is calculated based on the patient’s weight and condition.
3. A subcutaneous injection is prepared, usually in the thigh or abdomen.
4. Adalimumab is injected using a syringe.
5. The injection site is monitored for immediate adverse reactions.

Tools/equipment: Syringe, alcohol swabs, adalimumab medication.

Anesthesia/sedation information: Typically, no anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes, including preparation time.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient setting such as a doctor's office, clinic, or hospital outpatient department.

Personnel

• Registered Nurse or licensed healthcare professional to administer the injection.
• Physician or specialist may be present for oversight.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site.
• Rare risks: Serious infections, allergic reactions, or unusual bruising or bleeding.
• Management: Immediate medical evaluation and treatment if severe reactions occur.

Benefits

• Reduced inflammation and pain.
• Improved physical functioning and quality of life.
• Prevention of disease progression. Benefits are typically realized within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the condition.

Recovery

Post-procedure:

• Monitor injection site for any signs of infection or adverse reactions.
• Resume normal daily activities as directed by your healthcare provider.

Expected recovery:

• Immediate return to most daily activities. Follow-up appointments as advised to monitor effectiveness and adjust treatment.

Alternatives

• Other biologic medications or DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs).
• Physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and alternative pain management strategies.
• Pros and cons: Alternatives may have different efficacy, side effects, or convenience factors.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient may feel a slight pinch or discomfort at the injection site. After the procedure, any pain or swelling at the injection site is typically mild and temporary. Pain management can be achieved with over-the-counter pain relief, if necessary. Most patients can return to their normal activities immediately following the injection.