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Remicade vs. Humira

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Remicade (infliximab) and Humira (adalimumab) are both biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARDs) used to treat various autoimmune conditions, but they have some key differences. Remicade is given through an IV infusion by a healthcare provider, while Humira is a subcutaneous injection that you can administer yourself at home. Remicade is typically given every 6 to 8 weeks, whereas Humira is usually injected every other week. Both medications are available as a brand name, but have several biosimilars available that may make it more affordable. Remicade and Humira can raise the risk of serious infections and certain cancers, but Remicade has a higher risk of causing infusion-related reactions since it is administered intravenously. Additionally, Remicade is not recommended for people with moderate or severe heart failure, while Humira can be used with caution in those with heart conditions.

Remicade

(infliximab)

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Humira

(adalimumab)

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Summary for Remicade

Prescription only

Remicade (infliximab) is an injectable medication used to treat many autoimmune conditions, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It's given through an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare provider.

Indications for Remicade

  • Moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease (CD)
  • Moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (UC)
  • Moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
  • Ankylosing spondylitis (AS)
  • Psoriatic arthritis (PsA)
  • Severe plaque psoriasis (PsO)

Pros and Cons for Remicade

Pros

  • Can be used for many autoimmune conditions
  • Typically only needs to be given every 6 to 8 weeks
  • Can be used in children 6 years of age and older for UC and CD

Cons

  • Can only be given as an IV infusion by a healthcare professional
  • Can cause a lot of side effects
  • Brand name only, which can be expensive

Common Side Effects for Remicade

  • Infections
  • Nausea
  • Infusion-related reactions (e.g., headache, flushing, shortness of breath, rash)
  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
  • Sore throat
  • Cough
  • Rash
  • Bronchitis
  • Indigestion
  • Tiredness
  • General pain
  • Joint pain

Warnings for Remicade

  • Serious or deadly infections
  • Cancer
  • Liver problems and liver failure
  • Heart problems
  • Low blood cell counts
  • Nervous system problems
  • Medications to avoid

Summary for Humira

Prescription only

Humira (adalimumab) is an injection used to treat many different autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and plaque psoriasis. As a TNF blocker, the medication works by blocking a protein that causes inflammation in your body. It's given as a shot under the skin once every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on your condition. Humira (adalimumab) doesn't have a true generic, but there are several similar versions called biosimilars. Common side effects include infections, injection site reactions, and headache.

Indications for Humira

Pros and Cons for Humira

Pros

  • Can be used for many autoimmune conditions
  • Available as a ready-to-use pen that makes it easier to self-inject at home
  • Can be used in young children (as young as 2 years old for some conditions)
  • Only needs to be injected a couple times a month
  • Can be left at room temperature for up to 14 days if needed

Cons

  • Raises the risk of serious infections
  • Can take a few weeks or longer to work
  • Might be difficult to inject for some people
  • Can't receive any live vaccines while taking the medication
  • Might contain rubber or latex, which can cause a reaction for those with an allergy

Common Side Effects for Humira

  • Injection-site reaction (20%)
  • Upper respiratory tract infection (17%)
  • Headache (12%)
  • Rash (12%)
  • Sinus inflammation (11%)
  • Accidental injury (10%)
  • Nausea (9%)
  • Urinary tract infection (UTI) or bladder infection (8%)

Note: The side effects listed above were reported by adults with rheumatoid arthritis and are similar to those seen in people using Humira (adalimumab) for other conditions.

Warnings for Humira

  • Serious infections
  • Cancers
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Nervous system effects
  • Low blood cell counts
  • Heart failure
  • Lupus-like syndrome
  • Live vaccines

Prices with our coupons for Remicade vs. Humira

Price Card Drug Icon
Remicade4 vials / 100mg
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Humira1 carton / 2 pens of 40mg/0.4ml
$6,744.64$8,560.65
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