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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Hadlima

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭

Please tell me about the possible side effects. And also how do I know if the medicine is working or failing me? What do I watch for so I know.

September 11
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Answer Summary

Members discussed what to watch for when using Hadlima and other RA medications, sharing that flares, unexpected side effects like acne or... Read more

Members discussed what to watch for when using Hadlima and other RA medications, sharing that flares, unexpected side effects like acne or weight gain, and recurring infections can all be signs that a medication may or may not be working for you. Several members reflected on long personal journeys with RA treatment, noting that what works for one person may not work for another, and that staying connected with a good rheumatologist is key. A recurring theme was community encouragement around diet changes, insurance challenges, and supporting each other through the ups and downs of managing a chronic illness.

myRAteam

Hadlima (adalimumab-bwwd) is a biologic used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Like similar biologics, it comes with both common and more serious potential side effects to be aware of.

Common side effects include
- Upper respiratory infections
- Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, itching, or bruising)
- Headache
- Show Full Answer

Hadlima (adalimumab-bwwd) is a biologic used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Like similar biologics, it comes with both common and more serious potential side effects to be aware of.

Common side effects include:
- Upper respiratory infections
- Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, itching, or bruising)
- Headache
- Rash

Rare but serious side effects can include:
- Severe infections (including tuberculosis)
- Increased risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma
- Severe allergic reactions
- Low blood cell counts
- Heart failure
- Lupus-like syndrome
- Hepatitis B reactivation

Always contact a doctor right away if any signs of infection appear, such as fever, chills, cough, or flu-like symptoms. Knowing whether Hadlima is working can take some time — biologics often need 3 to 6 months to show their full effect.

Signs it may be working:
- Reduced joint pain and swelling
- Less morning stiffness
- Improved energy levels
- Better ability to do daily activities

Signs it may NOT be working:
- Returning or worsening joint pain and inflammation
- Increased fatigue that doesn't improve
- Flares becoming more frequent
- Lab markers (like CRP or ESR) staying elevated

A myRAteam member once shared that worsening fatigue and returning symptoms were the first clues their medication had stopped being effective — even before their doctor confirmed it.

Tracking symptoms in a journal can really help spot these patterns. Always discuss any concerns with a rheumatologist before making any changes to a treatment plan.

September 11
A myRAteam Member

AVOID ALL SUGAR, White flour, processed meat, Vegetable Protein-diet was the key to my rheumatoid factor dropping below normal. Berries and Cherries helped me a lot along with the “ carnivorous diet” I adhere to (I will keep everyone in my Prayers and Thoughts 🌺🌹

September 12
A myRAteam Member

I haven’t taken Hadlima but if you have redness, swelling or other symptoms consistently then you may be in a flare. Side effects from a drug i would read them and see if your experiencing any of them or getting odd effects. For instance on the drug rinvoq i experienced acne which i never have and it was listed on the box.

September 11
A myRAteam Member

I will try my best to adapt to the things you mention Daniel. I think the easiest start will be cutting out processed meats (which i dont really eat much anyway) and adding some berries in.

That flour tip - what do you use as a replacement substitute? I don't mind changing that at all once I know which way to go.

Now that NO SUGAR ..... That's a hard one. Well, its doable and I WILL succeed, but giving up the one happy thing in my day is really going to take a mindset. I will do it!

I will go slowly and I will accomplish my goal! Thanks to everyone for your words of encouragement and instructions for improvement!

September 13
A myRAteam Member

@A myRAteam Member I am feeling Blessed to be old enough that my husband and I, both, qualify for Medicare. Once we meet the yearly deductible our Prescriptions are free but its a rather pricey deductible at the start of the year. I just thank the Good Lord that we are able to do it. I feel for you younger folks dealing with this RA Disease and all the accompanying Insurance that goes along with it.

September 12

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