When you can't get adalimumab, you still have options

Missing a dose of adalimumab because you can't fill your prescription is stressful. Whether the issue is cost, insurance delays, or availability at your pharmacy, going without your biologic medication can put your health at risk. Autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis can flare when treatment is interrupted.

The good news: there are real alternatives. From interchangeable biosimilars to other TNF inhibitors, you have several paths forward. Here's what you need to know.

What is adalimumab and how does it work?

Adalimumab is a biologic medication that targets a protein called TNF-alpha (tumor necrosis factor-alpha). TNF-alpha plays a key role in driving inflammation in autoimmune diseases. By blocking TNF-alpha, adalimumab reduces inflammation and helps control symptoms in conditions like:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Crohn's disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Plaque psoriasis
• Hidradenitis suppurativa
• Uveitis

The original brand name is Humira, made by AbbVie. Since 2023, more than 10 biosimilar versions have launched in the U.S. For a complete overview, see How Does Adalimumab Work? Mechanism of Action Explained.

Interchangeable biosimilars: The closest alternatives

If you can't fill your prescription for a specific adalimumab product, the easiest switch is to another interchangeable biosimilar. These are medications that the FDA has determined are so similar to the original Humira that pharmacists in many states can substitute them without contacting your doctor — just like switching between a brand-name drug and its generic.

As of 2026, FDA-designated interchangeable adalimumab biosimilars include:

• Amjevita (adalimumab-atto) — by Amgen
• Cyltezo (adalimumab-adbm) — by Boehringer Ingelheim
• Hadlima (adalimumab-bwwd) — by Samsung Bioepis/Organon
• Hyrimoz (adalimumab-adaz) — by Sandoz
• Hulio (adalimumab-fkjp) — by Biocon/Viatris
• Simlandi (adalimumab-ryvk) — by Teva
• Yuflyma (adalimumab-aaty) — by Celltrion

These biosimilars have the same active ingredient, same mechanism of action, and are clinically equivalent to Humira. The main differences may be in the injection device design and price. Talk to your pharmacist about which ones your insurance covers.

Other TNF inhibitors: Same drug class, different medication

If adalimumab (in any form) isn't an option for you, there are other TNF inhibitors your doctor may consider. These drugs work through a similar mechanism but are different molecules.

Etanercept (Enbrel)

Etanercept is a TNF inhibitor given as a subcutaneous injection once weekly. It's FDA-approved for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, plaque psoriasis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. However, it is not approved for Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, so it's not a suitable replacement if you take adalimumab for inflammatory bowel disease.

Infliximab (Remicade)

Infliximab is a TNF inhibitor administered as an IV infusion every 6 to 8 weeks at an infusion center. It covers many of the same conditions as adalimumab, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The main trade-off is that you'll need to visit an infusion center rather than self-injecting at home. Biosimilars of infliximab are also available (Inflectra, Renflexis, Avsola).

Certolizumab pegol (Cimzia)

Certolizumab is a PEGylated TNF inhibitor given as a subcutaneous injection every 2 to 4 weeks. It's approved for Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and plaque psoriasis. A notable advantage: certolizumab does not cross the placenta, making it a preferred option for patients who are pregnant or planning pregnancy.

Golimumab (Simponi, Simponi Aria)

Golimumab is a TNF inhibitor available as a monthly subcutaneous injection (Simponi) or an IV infusion every 8 weeks (Simponi Aria). It's FDA-approved for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and ulcerative colitis. It is not approved for Crohn's disease.

Important things to consider before switching

Switching medications — even within the same drug class — is a decision you should make with your doctor. Here are key factors:

• Your specific condition matters. Not all TNF inhibitors are approved for every condition. If you take adalimumab for Crohn's disease, etanercept and golimumab are not options.
• Insurance coverage varies. Your plan may prefer one TNF inhibitor over another. Check with your insurer before making a switch.
• Side effect profiles are similar but not identical. All TNF inhibitors carry risks of serious infections and have boxed warnings. Read about adalimumab side effects to understand the general class risks.
• Switching costs time. New prior authorizations and potential step therapy requirements may delay access to the new medication.

Final thoughts

If you can't fill your adalimumab prescription, don't panic. You have real alternatives — from interchangeable biosimilars that work identically to Humira, to other TNF inhibitors that your doctor may recommend. The key is acting quickly, communicating with your care team, and exploring all your options.

Start by searching for available adalimumab products on Medfinder. If you're struggling with cost, read our guide on How to Save Money on Adalimumab in 2026. And if you need help finding a prescriber, check out How to Find a Doctor Who Can Prescribe Adalimumab Near You.