Adalimumab

Kirjon

Hi I’m new to this group and would welcome any advice on this drug. I am currently waiting for blood tests etc to come back before starting. I am concerned about the cancer risks associated with it. I had cancer 7years ago and am worried about this. Does anyone have any experience/knowledge about stats etc. my nurse advised to come on here. Thanking you in advance

Naomi33

Good afternoon @Kirjon and welcome to the online community.

Sorry to hear your concerns about cancer risks whilst taking Adalimumab.

I have no personal experience but I am sure others will connect with you soon.

In the meantime the following links maybe of interest….

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/treatments/drugs/adalimumab/

Best wishes @Naomi33

Arciere

Hi @Kirjon

I don’t have any stats to share, other than what you can find online. I thought I’d respond anyway just to say that I really rate Adalimumab. Together with a completely new diet and removal of some causes of stress, I am almost living like I don’t have rheumatoid arthritis anymore (although I am still stiff after being sedentary and, I continue to have hand pain) but, I’m in a lot better position than before I commenced it (Yulflyma). I was actually more concerned about the immunosuppressant leading to colds and flu - but I am yet to experience any illnesses.

I try and stick to NHS resources online, otherwise it can feel like a rabbit hole of info.

For my prescription of this drug, the hospital set a few conditions that I have to meet, which includes regular blood screening. So far, the results are very encouraging.

I’m sorry to hear you have already experienced a cancer. I hope it all works out for you.

jamieA

Hi @Kirjon

Like @Arciere I have no detail regarding the risk of cancer from adalimumab. I've been on it for more than 3 years now and it's made a significant difference to me. Two months after starting it I was able to return the crutches I'd needed to walk with. I now walk my dog 50-60kms a week - albeit with a limp as the first year of PsA before a treatment that worked means my left knee needs replaced. I have blood tests every 3 months to ensure things are stable.

I hope it works for you if you choose to take it.

NickinSuffolk

Hi Kirjon, I started my Yuflyma in August, having had RA since 2011. I too had cancer in 2017, resulting in thoracic surgery. However, being discharged from Papworth as an outpatient last year, my RA deteriorated - I probably got used to the Methotrexate & Leflunomide combo. Anyway, I can no longer buy footwear 'off the shelf' and the dexterity in my hands was also worsening with regular flare ups. I used to take Naproxen for the flares but it really did not agree with me, so the biologics route was welcomed.

I've considered the risks, and the fact that I'm 61 and need to remain working until at least 67. Nearly two months in, it's given me a new lease of life, so I am enjoying the ability to do stuff I've not been capable of since my pre cancer days. I can't give you any statistics but I just wish I'd been put on Yuflyma a few years ago - I'd still be wearing Doc Martens! Do try not to worry. I have a theory that stress & worry probably add to the cancer risk so concentrate on getting back to a healthier version of you. Take care

Nicki

Kirjon

thank you so much Nicki. Very helpful and I’m glad you are doing so well

TinaA

Thanks for asking the question on Adalimumab. I have just had a review of my meds. I am injecting Etanercept at the moment but it has stopped working. They are going to try me on adalimumab in a few weeks. It is reassuring that there are some good results for people on it. I hope it works for me as in a lot of pain and stiffness at present. Hope it works well for you if you take it.