Does humira affect kidneys?

Humira, also known as adalimumab, is a biologic drug used to treat various autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. As with any medication, there are potential risks and side effects associated with its use. One question that often comes up is whether Humira affects the kidneys. In this article, we will explore this topic in detail.

What Is Humira?

Before delving into how Humira may affect the kidneys, let’s take a brief look at what it actually is. Humira belongs to a class of drugs called tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNF inhibitors). TNF is a cytokine (a type of protein) that plays an important role in inflammation. By blocking TNF activity, medications like Humira can reduce inflammation in conditions such as those listed above.

How Does the Kidney Work?

To understand how Humira may impact kidney function or health one must first have an understanding of how healthy kidneys work? Well! Our renal system functions by filtering waste from our blood before excretion via urine production through tiny blood vessels ‘glomeruli’ located within our kidneys! These nephrons constantly filter up metabolic waste along with excess ions/minerals which they utilize/supplement for proper hormone secretion/maintenance respectively.

What Do Studies Say About Humira And Kidneys?

Few studies indicate potential adverse effects on patients where issues related to creatinine clearance appeared after using certain dosage regimens every other week/weekly:

However, there is still no scientific consensus on whether Humira significantly affects kidney function or causes long-term damage. It’s worth noting that other factors such as age, pre-existing kidney disease, and concomitant use of other medications can also impact kidney health.

Symptoms Of Kidney Damage

Sometimes multiple conditions could overlap with each other resulting in misdiagnosis. If anyone faces any symptoms below please consult a specialist immediately:

• High blood pressure
• Swelling/edema around eyes/wrists/lower limbs
• Fatigue/general weakness/sleepiness due to ineffective renal functioning
• Pain/burning sensation during micturation(urination)

If anyone experiences any of these symptoms along with taking Humira, they should speak to their healthcare provider about getting their kidney function tested.

What Precautions Can You Take?

While the potential risk remains unknown when it comes to Humira‘s impact by blocking TNF activity precisely towards glomeruli filtration units; there are some precautions one can consider:

1) Regular check-ups – Go for regular check-up sessions every few months(or annually minimum as recommended /prejudiced by personal physician).

2) Monitoring Blood Pressure – One suggested among measures to control RENIN levels particularly helpful in patients undergoing TNF-A therapy.

3) Proper Medication Timing / Sterilization Practice – Always administer according to a physician’s instructions while following correct sterilization practices like washing hands before opening medicine storage containers!

By doing so you might avoid unnecessary complications later on caused primarily due to negligence even from Health Care Providers who might accidentally overlook specific issues before prescribing Humira particular dosage regimens!

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it has not yet been conclusively proven if Humira significantly impacts the kidneys over time (possible risks may arise based on improper dosing frequency), but proper medications management & close nephrologist follow-up care will remain the key to mitigating any potential adverse effects. If you have any concerns about your kidney health in relation to Humira, speak with your healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation as they are best equipped for considering all such adverse events while designing a specific medical strategy!

Let’s keep it healthy, funny and positive!

Dane Raynor

Hey there, I’m Dane Raynor, and I’m all about sharing fascinating knowledge, news, and hot topics. I’m passionate about learning and have a knack for simplifying complex ideas. Let’s explore together!