Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
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.
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.

6 days ago
 · 
Reactions

Answer Summary

Members discussed what to watch for with Hadlima and other RA medications, sharing that flares, unusual symptoms like acne or weight gain, and... Read more

Members discussed what to watch for with Hadlima and other RA medications, sharing that flares, unusual symptoms like acne or weight gain, and frequent infections can be signs a medication needs attention. Several members described long personal journeys with RA treatments, noting that what works for one person may not work for another, and that infections are common due to immune-suppressing medications. A recurring theme was the importance of a good rheumatologist, staying hopeful through trial and error, and some members also pointed to dietary changes like cutting sugar and processed foods as helpful additions to their treatment.

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.

6 days ago
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.

6 days ago
A myRAteam Member

Everyone is susceptible to opportunistic infections because of the immunosuppressant treatments we receive due to the hyperactivity of autoimmune diseases. It is an illness caused by germs that affect a weaken immune system. I take Xeljanz same family as Rinvoq. It depends on what the programs are that they have for patients to afford these meds. Insurance as well.

6 days ago
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 🌺🌹

5 days ago
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.

5 days ago

Related Questions

View All
A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Clarinda, IA