From the Research
Humira (adalimumab) typically takes about 12 weeks to show significant improvement for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), though some patients may notice initial benefits within 4-8 weeks of starting treatment. The standard dosing regimen for HS begins with 160 mg on day 1 (given as four 40 mg injections), followed by 80 mg two weeks later (day 15), and then 40 mg weekly starting at week 4 1. This medication works by blocking tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), a key inflammatory protein involved in HS pathogenesis, thereby reducing inflammation, drainage, and pain from HS lesions.
Some key points to consider when using Humira for HS include:
- The importance of continuing treatment as prescribed, even if immediate results are not apparent, as the full therapeutic effect develops gradually 2
- Monitoring for side effects, including injection site reactions and increased risk of infections 1
- Regular follow-up appointments with a dermatologist to assess response and adjust treatment if needed 3
- Humira is typically considered when conventional treatments like antibiotics have failed to adequately control moderate to severe HS 1
It's also worth noting that while other treatments like ustekinumab may be effective for some patients with HS, adalimumab is currently the only biologic agent approved for this indication 4, 5. However, the most recent and highest quality study on this topic, published in 2022, found that adalimumab was effective in reducing disease severity and improving quality of life in patients with HS, with significant improvements observed after 12 weeks of treatment 2.