If you’re one of the many people living with a chronic immune condition, chances are that you’re familiar with Humira. This popular medication is used to treat a variety of conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and psoriasis. But if you’re planning to take Humira with you on the go, you’re probably wondering whether it still works when it’s been out of the fridge for a while.
The good news is that Humira is actually quite stable at room temperature. According to the manufacturer, AbbVie, the medication will remain effective for up to 14 days if it’s kept at room temperature (which is generally defined as between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit). So if you’re traveling or planning to take Humira with you during the day, there’s no need to worry about refrigeration as long as you plan to use it within a couple of weeks.
That said, if you’re taking Humira on a regular basis, it’s still best to keep it in the fridge. This can help to ensure that the medication stays effective for longer, and can also make it more comfortable to inject (since Humira can cause skin irritation if it’s too warm). So if you have the option of storing your Humira in the fridge, it’s probably a good idea to do so. But if you’re ever in a situation where you don’t have access to a fridge, you can rest easy knowing that your medication will still be effective for a little while.
Humira: An Overview
Humira, also known as adalimumab, is a medication used to treat various conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, plaque psoriasis, and ulcerative colitis. It belongs to a class of drugs called TNF blockers, which work by blocking the action of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), a protein that contributes to inflammation.
How Long is Humira Good For Out of the Fridge?
- According to the manufacturer, Humira needs to be stored in a refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
- However, Humira can be left out of the fridge at room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for up to 14 days before it expires.
- If you need to take Humira with you on-the-go, it is recommended to use a cooler pack to keep it at the right temperature.
It is important to note that once Humira expires, it should be discarded and not used. This is because the effectiveness of the drug may not be guaranteed after the expiry date.
Additionally, it is crucial to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider on how to use Humira properly. Never share your medication with others, and always dispose of used needles and syringes in a puncture-proof container.
Other Precautions for Using Humira
Before starting Humira, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, as well as any medications or supplements you are taking. Certain medications may interact with Humira, so it is crucial to disclose everything to your doctor to avoid any potential adverse effects.
Moreover, Humira may increase the risk of infections, including serious infections. It is important to notify your doctor immediately if you experience any signs of an infection, such as fever, cough, or flu-like symptoms.
Conclusion
Overall, Humira is a widely used medication that can be highly effective in treating various conditions. However, it is crucial to store and use the medication correctly, as well as follow any instructions from your healthcare provider. If you have any concerns or questions about using Humira, do not hesitate to seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
| Storage | Room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for up to 14 days before expiry | Refrigerated (36°F to 46°F or 2°C to 8°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Duration of storage | Up to 14 days | Until expiry date |
| Notes | Use a cooler pack if taking Humira on-the-go | Make sure to follow storage instructions to ensure effectiveness |
Proper Storage of Humira
Humira is a medication that is commonly prescribed to treat a range of inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn’s disease. It contains adalimumab, which is a protein that needs to be kept in the appropriate storage conditions to maintain its efficacy and safety.
- Humira should be stored in a refrigerator at a temperature of 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
- It is essential to store the medication away from the freezer compartment to prevent it from freezing.
- Humira should be kept in its original packaging until the time of usage to protect it from light.
If you need to travel with Humira or if you have a power outage, you may need to store it outside the refrigerator for a short period. The Humira Pen, Humira Citrate-free Pen, and Humira Pre-filled Syringe can be stored at room temperature for up to 14 days.
However, it is important to note that once Humira is stored at room temperature, it cannot be returned to the refrigerator. The manufacturer advises that the medication should be used as soon as possible after it has been stored at room temperature.
Furthermore, patients should not use Humira if it has been stored above 77°F (25°C) for an extended period. Exposure to high temperatures can cause the protein to denature and lose its effectiveness.
| Storage Condition | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator (36°F – 46°F or 2°C – 8°C) | Up to expiration date |
| Room Temperature (68°F – 77°F or 20°C – 25°C) | Up to 14 days |
Proper storage of Humira is crucial to ensure that the medication remains effective and safe for use. Patients should adhere to the storage recommendations and consult with their healthcare provider if they have any concerns about the storage or usage of Humira.
Shelf-Life of Humira
Humira, also known as Adalimumab, is a medication used to treat various autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn’s disease. This medication belongs to a class of drugs called biologics, which are made from living cells and are highly sensitive to temperature changes. Therefore, it is important to know the shelf-life of Humira and how to store it properly.
Factors Affecting the Shelf-Life of Humira
- The expiration date of the medication
- The storage temperature of the medication
- The handling and transportation of the medication
The shelf-life of a drug is the length of time it is considered safe and effective to use. The expiration date on the medication’s package indicates the last date it is recommended to be used. However, various factors can affect the shelf-life of the medication, such as the storage temperature and handling procedures.
Storing Humira
To maintain the effectiveness and potency of Humira, the medication should be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F). Storing Humira outside the recommended temperature range can cause the drug to break down and lose its effectiveness. In case of power outage, Humira can be kept at room temperature (up to 25°C or 77°F) for up to 14 days. After 14 days, any unused Humira should be discarded. Avoid freezing the medication as well, as freezing can cause the drug to be ineffective.
Shelf-Life of Humira Out of Fridge
Humira should be kept in the fridge until it is time for use. Once taken out of the fridge, it can be kept at room temperature for up to 14 days before it needs to be discarded. This means that if you are traveling or transporting the medication, it can be kept out of the fridge for short periods without affecting its shelf-life. However, it is still important to store the medication at the right temperature as soon as possible to extend its shelf-life.
| Temperature | Shelf-Life |
|---|---|
| 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) | Up to the expiration date |
| Up to 25°C (77°F) | Up to 14 days |
It is always best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about the storage and shelf-life of Humira. Proper storage and handling of medication can ensure that it remains safe and effective for use.
Effects of Improper Storage of Humira
Humira is a widely used medication that requires proper storage to ensure its effectiveness and safety. When not stored correctly, it can result in reduced efficacy and possibly harmful effects.
Here are some of the effects of improper storage:
- Inability to use the medication: Humira must be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C. Failure to do so can result in the medicine being unusable.
- Reduced efficacy: Humira’s effectiveness can be reduced when it is exposed to temperatures above 25°C for a prolonged period. It can also be affected if it is exposed to extreme cold or freezing temperatures.
- Increased risk of infections: Inadequate storage conditions can cause the medicine to become contaminated, leading to the risk of serious bacterial infections.
It is crucial to ensure that Humira is stored correctly to avoid these effects, which can be potentially life-threatening.
The following table shows the recommended storage conditions and shelf life of Humira:
| Storage Conditions | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated (2°C to 8°C) | Up to 36 months from the date of manufacture |
| Room temperature (up to 25°C) for a maximum of 14 days | Discard unused product after 14 days |
It is vital to follow the recommended storage conditions and expiration date to ensure that the medicine works as intended. If you accidentally leave your Humira out of the fridge for a short time, it may still be safe to use, but it is essential to contact your doctor or pharmacist before using it to be sure.
Humira Use for Various Diseases
Humira is a medication that has been approved by the FDA for several diseases. It is a biologic drug that works by suppressing the immune response. Humira is a prescription medicine used for the treatment of the following diseases:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Crohn’s Disease
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Ankylosing Spondylitis
- Plaque Psoriasis
- Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
How Long is Humira Good for Out of the Fridge?
Humira is a temperature-sensitive medication that needs to be stored in a refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C. This is because the active ingredients in the medication can degrade if exposed to high temperatures. However, there may be situations where Humira needs to be transported or stored outside of this temperature range.
According to the manufacturer of Humira, the medication can be stored at room temperature for up to 14 days. This means that if you are traveling with Humira or if you accidentally leave it out of the refrigerator, you have a window of two weeks before the medication needs to be discarded.
It’s important to note that once Humira has been stored at room temperature, it should not be returned to the refrigerator. This is because the repeated changes in temperature can affect the quality and effectiveness of the medication.
| Storage Temperature | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| 2°C to 8°C (Refrigerator) | Up to the expiration date on the label |
| Up to 25°C (Room Temperature) | Up to 14 days |
If you have any concerns about the storage or shelf life of your Humira medication, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Common Side Effects of Humira
Humira is a popular medication used to treat a variety of autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and psoriasis. While it can be highly effective at controlling symptoms, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects that may accompany its use.
General Side Effects of Humira
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Fever and chills
- Skin rash
One of the most common side effects of Humira is injection site reactions. These can include pain, swelling, and redness around the injection site. In some cases, these reactions may develop into infections or abscesses and require medical intervention.
In addition, Humira can increase the risk of serious infections by suppressing the immune system. Patients taking Humira may be more susceptible to infections such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, and sepsis. It is important to discuss any signs of infection with your healthcare provider promptly.
Specific Side Effects of Humira
In rare cases, Humira can lead to serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These may include:
- Serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis
- Heart failure
- Blood disorders such as aplastic anemia and pancytopenia
- Aggravation of multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune disorders
- Development of certain types of cancer
It is important to note that the risk of developing these side effects is relatively low, and most patients experience only mild to moderate side effects from Humira.
Conclusion
While Humira can be a highly effective treatment option for autoimmune disorders, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects that may accompany its use. Patients taking Humira should be vigilant in monitoring for any signs of infection or other serious side effects, and should report any concerns to their healthcare provider promptly. With careful monitoring and management, however, most patients are able to successfully manage their symptoms and enjoy improved quality of life.
| Common Side Effects | Less Common Side Effects | Rare Side Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Headaches | Blood disorders | Serious allergic reactions |
| Nausea and vomiting | Heart failure | Cancer |
| Dizziness | Aggravation of autoimmune disorders | |
| Fatigue | ||
| Fever and chills | ||
| Skin rash |
Proper Disposal of Humira
After using Humira, it is essential to dispose of the drug in the correct way to avoid any potential harm to the environment and others. Here are some proper disposal methods:
- Unused or expired Humira must be disposed of according to the instructions provided by the doctor or pharmacist. Never flush medications down the toilet or drain as it can cause harm to the environment.
- Sharps containers are used to dispose of used needles and syringes. You can purchase one from a pharmacy or medical equipment supplier. Once the container is full, make sure to seal it tightly and follow your local guidelines for disposal of sharps containers.
- Place Humira and any other prescription medicines in a secure trash bin that is out of reach from children and pets.
Disposing of Humira during Travel
If you are traveling, it is crucial to carry your Humira medications in a cooler bag with ice packs to keep them refrigerated. If Humira is exposed to temperatures above 77°F (25°C) for an extended period, it should be discarded. Also, carry a sharps container with you to dispose of used needles and syringes.
Guidelines for Disposing of Sharps Containers
Sharps containers can be disposed of in different ways depending on your local regulations. Here are some general guidelines:
Avoid recycling containers that were previously used to store sharps to prevent injuries to waste management workers. Consider using a mail-back program or check with your local health department for sharps disposal guidelines.
| Proper Disposal Methods | Non-acceptable Methods | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Place sharps in a proper sharps container and dispose of it properly | Don’t throw sharps loosely in the trash bin or recycling | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Take advantage of take-back programs | Don’t flush sharps down the toilet |
| Key Facts | Summary |
|---|---|
| Method of Administration | Subcutaneous injection |
| Dosage | Loading dose of 80 mg followed by maintenance dose of 40 mg every other week. Dosages may vary based on individual patient needs and condition severity. |
| Storage | Store in refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. Can be left out of the refrigerator at room temperature for up to 14 days, but should not be exposed to extreme temperatures, light, or freezing. |
| Potential Side Effects | Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, injection site reactions, and an increased risk of infections. Humira should not be used by patients with active infections or those who have had an allergic reaction to any of its ingredients. |
By following proper dosage and administration guidelines and being aware of potential side effects, patients can safely and effectively use Humira as a treatment for their inflammatory conditions.
Humira Precautions and Warnings
Humira (adalimumab) is a medication used to treat various medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and psoriasis. While effective, this medication requires proper handling and storage to prevent loss of potency. Here are some precautions and warnings that you need to know:
- Always store Humira in the refrigerator. The medication should be kept at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F).
- Do not freeze Humira. Freezing can damage the medication and decrease its effectiveness.
- Humira can be kept at room temperature for a maximum of 14 days. However, once removed from the refrigerator, the medication should not be returned. Discard any unused portion of the medication after 14 days.
- Check the expiration date on the Humira package before using it. Do not use the medication if it has expired.
- If you are traveling, make sure to pack Humira in a cooler with ice packs to maintain the appropriate temperature.
- Do not shake the Humira pen or syringe. Shaking can damage the medication.
- Use Humira as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not stop or change the dose without consulting your doctor.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of infection, tuberculosis, or any other medical condition before using Humira.
- If you experience side effects or allergic reactions, seek medical attention immediately. Possible side effects include injection site reactions, infections, and allergic reactions such as hives and difficulty breathing.
How Long is Humira Good for Out of the Fridge?
One of the most common questions about Humira is how long it can be out of the fridge. As mentioned earlier, Humira can be kept at room temperature for up to 14 days. This means that if you remove Humira from the fridge, you have 14 days to use it before it expires.
However, if the temperature is above 25°C (77°F), the medication should not be used even if it is within the 14-day period. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can damage the medication and make it less effective.
| Temperature | Maximum Time Out of Fridge |
|---|---|
| 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) | No limit |
| Up to 25°C (77°F) | Up to 14 days |
| Above 25°C (77°F) | Do not use |
Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the manufacturer to ensure the maximum effectiveness of the medication. Proper storage and handling of Humira can help improve your overall treatment experience and reduce the risk of adverse reactions.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding while on Humira
Humira is a medication commonly used to treat various autoimmune disorders. However, for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.
First and foremost, it’s essential to consult with your doctor before continuing or starting Humira while pregnant or breastfeeding. Your healthcare provider can assess the potential risks and benefits of taking the medication and help you make an informed decision.
- Pregnancy: Humira falls in category B of pregnancy medications, meaning that there are no significant risks to the developing fetus. Still, it’s essential to talk to your physician about the potential risks and benefits of taking Humira during pregnancy. They will also help to monitor you closely throughout your pregnancy to ensure everything is going well.
- Breastfeeding: Humira is passed through breast milk, so it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider if you are nursing before starting the medication. In this way, the doctor can evaluate the potential health risks to your baby and determine whether the benefits outweigh the risks. If you continue with Humira, it’s essential to pay close attention to your baby’s health, and inform your doctor if you notice any adverse effects.
- Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may recommend some tests and exams throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding to ensure the safety of you and your baby. These tests can include fetal ultrasounds, amniocentesis, and exams to check the baby’s health, growth rate, and birth weight.
Ultimately, women on Humira who are pregnant or breastfeeding must work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the safest course of action. However, with thoughtful management and a close physician-patient relationship, many women are safely able to take Humira while pregnant or breastfeeding and manage their autoimmune disorder effectively.
It’s also worth noting that the effectiveness of Humira may increase in pregnant women, and the need for dosage adjustments may arise due to the body’s physiological changes. Therefore, it’s critical to keep your healthcare provider informed of any changes that occur during pregnancy.
| Humira Side-Effects in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding | Pregnancy | Breastfeeding |
|---|---|---|
| Common Side-Effects | Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Headache | Reduces immunity, infections, and allergic reactions in babies |
| Serious Side-Effects | Risk of Infections or Tuberculosis, Congestive Heart Failure | Suppresses Baby’s Immunity, Infection Risk, and Allergic Reaction |
In conclusion, women on Humira medication should inform their healthcare providers if they are pregnant or nursing their babies to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the medication. It’s also essential to follow the dosing instructions carefully, attend routine check-ups, and report any adverse effects promptly.
Wrap Up
So, there you have it! Humira should always be stored in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. Once you take it out, you have up to 14 days to use it, so plan accordingly. Remember that if your Humira has been exposed to extreme temperatures or you notice any changes in its appearance, it’s best to have a chat with your doctor or pharmacist. Also, if you have any extra tips or tricks for keeping Humira fresh and effective, feel free to share them in the comments below. Thanks for reading, and make sure to check back soon for more useful articles!