Adalimumab (Humira, Amjevita, Cyltezo, Hyrimoz)

Immunotherapy · Approved since 2002

US FDA Approved EU EMA Approved ES Hospital use other indication Subcutaneous 2 Clinical Trials
TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor-alpha)

Description

Adalimumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody that blocks tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF- ) and is primarily used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. While not a standard treatment for colorectal cancer itself, adalimumab may be relevant in CRC patients who have concurrent inflammatory bowel disease, as chronic inflammation from IBD increases colorectal cancer risk. The medication helps control intestinal inflammation that could complicate cancer treatment or contribute to cancer development in IBD patients.

Mechanism of Action

Adalimumab binds specifically to TNF- , a pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays a central role in inflammatory and immune responses. By blocking TNF- , adalimumab reduces inflammation in the intestinal tract and suppresses the abnormal immune response characteristic of inflammatory bowel diseases.

Molecular Targets

Side Effects

Injection site reactions Increased infection risk Upper respiratory tract infections Headache Fatigue Nausea Increased liver enzymes Decreased white blood cell count

Not all side effects are listed. Side effects vary by individual. Always consult your oncologist.

Clinical Trials

NCT04646187 Phase 4
Enrolling by invitation
De-escalation of Anti-TNF Therapy in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Belgium, Netherlands, Spain
NCT02171429 Phase 3
Archived
A Study Comparing the Efficacy and Safety of Etrolizumab With Adalimumab and Placebo in Participants With Moderate to Severe Ulcerative Colitis (UC) in Participants Naive to Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) Inhibitors
United States, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Colombia, Croatia, Czechi