Hadlima

How does Hadlima work?

Hadlima is a fully human monoclonal antibody that targets and binds to tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a key protein involved in inflammation. In autoimmune conditions, the body produces excess TNF-α, which drives chronic inflammation and tissue damage. By binding to TNF-α, Hadlima blocks it from interacting with cell surface TNF receptors, effectively reducing the inflammatory response.

Hadlima is administered by subcutaneous injection, typically 40 mg every other week. Some conditions require an initial loading dose of 80–160 mg. Patients can self-inject at home after receiving proper training from their healthcare provider. Injection sites include the thigh or abdomen, and sites should be rotated with each dose.

How hard is it to find Hadlima in stock?

Hadlima scores a 40 out of 100 on our findability scale, meaning it can be moderately difficult to locate in stock. As a newer adalimumab biosimilar (launched July 2023), many pharmacies have been slow to stock it. Availability issues stem from formulary transitions, limited pharmacy adoption of biosimilars, and the fact that many pharmacists still default to dispensing Humira. While Hadlima is not listed on the FDA drug shortage database, patients frequently report difficulty finding it at their local pharmacy. Specialty pharmacies and mail-order services tend to have better availability. Using Medfinder can help you quickly locate pharmacies near you that have Hadlima in stock.

Who Can Prescribe Hadlima?

Hadlima is most commonly prescribed by specialists, including:

• Rheumatologists — for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis
• Gastroenterologists — for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
• Dermatologists — for plaque psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa
• Ophthalmologists — for non-infectious uveitis
• Internal medicine physicians — may manage ongoing treatment in some cases

Because Hadlima is a biologic with serious potential side effects, most patients are referred to a specialist before starting treatment. Prior authorization from insurance is typically required.

Is Hadlima a controlled substance?

No, Hadlima is not a controlled substance. It is not classified under any DEA schedule. However, it does carry a boxed warning regarding increased risk of serious infections (including tuberculosis and invasive fungal infections) and malignancies (including lymphoma). Patients must be screened for latent tuberculosis before starting Hadlima, and ongoing monitoring is required during treatment.

Common Side Effects of Hadlima

• Upper respiratory infections (cold, sinus infections)
• Injection site reactions (redness, pain, swelling, itching)
• Headache
• Rash
• Nausea
• Back pain
• Urinary tract infections

Serious side effects (seek medical attention immediately):

• Serious infections including tuberculosis, bacterial sepsis, and invasive fungal infections
• Signs of lymphoma or other cancers
• New or worsening heart failure
• Nervous system problems (numbness, tingling, vision changes)
• Severe allergic reactions
• Liver problems (jaundice, fatigue, dark urine)

Hadlima carries a boxed warning about serious infections and malignancies. Your doctor will monitor you closely during treatment.

Final Thoughts on Hadlima

Hadlima is a valuable biosimilar option for patients who need adalimumab therapy but want a more affordable alternative to Humira. With a wholesale acquisition cost of approximately $1,038 per carton compared to Humira's $6,922, the savings can be substantial. Organon also offers a $0 co-pay savings card for eligible commercially insured patients, and patient assistance programs are available for the uninsured or underinsured.

The biggest challenge with Hadlima is finding it in stock. As a relatively new biosimilar, pharmacy adoption is still ramping up, and not all pharmacies routinely carry it. If your local pharmacy doesn't have Hadlima, consider asking them to order it, checking specialty pharmacies, or using Medfinder to locate nearby pharmacies with availability.