Adalimumab (Abrilada)

Abrilada (adalimumab) is a biologic medicine that helps the pain and swelling of arthritis.

Abrilada is used to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Juvenile Inflammatory Arthritis, Psoriasis, Crohn’s Disease, and other types of arthritis. It may also be used to treat other diseases outside of rheumatology.

Abrilada works by blocking Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF), a type of signalling protein (called a cytokine), that is involved in systemic inflammation. Abrilada belongs to a class of similar medications called Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor agents.

Abrilada may be prescribed in combination with other rheumatology medications like methotrexate.

Biosimilar

Abrilada is a type of medicine that is called a biosimilar. A biosimilar is a type of biologic medication that is designed to be identical to an existing biologic medication, but is created using a different process.

Abrila is a biosimilar of Humira. Both medications are known by the same generic name: adalimumab. Biosimilars are often cheaper than the original medication.

Taking Abrilada

Abrilada is available as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection in one of two forms that can be taken at home: as a pre-filled syringe, and as an autoinjector (pen).

Abrilada usually takes about 2 weeks before patients start to feel its effects. It may take 12 weeks to feel the effect of this medicine.

Important Tests and Risks

Science

Safety

Video

Watch Dr. Andy Thompson, a Canadian rheumatologist, introduce Abrilada in this short video:

Resources

Abrilada Quick Reference Guide

DIN

  • 02511045 (SC) - Autoinjector 40 mg/0.8 mL
  • 02511053 (SC) - Pre-filled Syringe 40 mg/0.8 mL
  • 02511061 (SC) - Pre-filled Syringe 20 mg/0.4 mL