Key takeaways
Adalimumab (Humira) and hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) are both used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but they belong to different medication classes. Adalimumab is a TNF blocker that is also used for various autoimmune conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, while hydroxychloroquine is a non-biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) that also treats lupus and malaria. Adalimumab is administered as a subcutaneous injection every 1 to 2 weeks, whereas hydroxychloroquine is taken orally, typically once or twice a day. Adalimumab does not have a true generic but has biosimilars, while hydroxychloroquine is available as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects of adalimumab include infections and injection site reactions, while hydroxychloroquine can cause nausea and diarrhea. Adalimumab raises the risk of serious infections and should not be used with live vaccines, whereas hydroxychloroquine can cause heart rhythm problems and interacts with several medications.
