Pharmacology · single question
What is the mechanism of action of Humira (adalimumab)?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Inhibits TNF-alpha
- A. B-cell depletion is the mechanism of rituximab (anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody) — not adalimumab.
- B. ADALIMUMAB (Humira) is a FULLY HUMAN MONOCLONAL ANTIBODY that INHIBITS TNF-ALPHA (tumor necrosis factor-alpha). TNF-alpha is a key pro-inflammatory cytokine in rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, psoriasis, and other immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. By neutralizing TNF-alpha, adalimumab reduces inflammatory signaling and symptoms.
- C. IL-6 receptor inhibition is the mechanism of tocilizumab (Actemra) — not adalimumab.
- D. T-cell co-stimulation blockade is the mechanism of abatacept (Orencia) — not adalimumab.