Like infliximab, adalimumab is another of the new anti-TNF monoclonal antibody therapies which has been developed to treat a range of diseases, including Crohn's disease. However, it is the first biologic treatment which can be self-administered (injection given under the skin rather than intraveously).

The drug initially underwent evaluation in clinical trials that were held throughout various centres in Australia about three years ago but now has TGA approval for use in treating moderate to severe active disease and for maintaining remission in those who have not had an adequate response to conventional therapy. It is also used in those patients who do not respond to or are intolerant of infliximab.

The only problem is it is very expensive (costing thousands of dollars) as at the present time it is not on the PBS, although a submission is being lodged.
   - TGA: Therapeutic Goods Administration.