Key takeaways
Adalimumab (Humira) and oral methotrexate (Trexall) are both medications used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions, but they belong to different medication classes. Adalimumab is a biologic injection that blocks a protein involved in inflammation. Oral methotrexate helps calm an overactive immune system to reduce inflammation. Adalimumab is injected under the skin, typically every 1 to 2 weeks. You'll typically take methotrexate once a week for autoimmune conditions, and in most cases you'll need to take folic acid along with it to prevent low folic acid levels. Common side effects of adalimumab include infections and injection site reactions, whereas methotrexate can cause nausea, fatigue, and headache. In some cases, your prescriber may recommend taking both adalimumab and oral methotrexate, depending on your symptoms and how you respond to treatment.
