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ulcerative colitis

Self-Injection Videos

How to Inject Yuflyma at Home: A User-Friendly Guide

April 23, 2024

Injecting medication at home can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. If your doctor has prescribed Yuflyma for your condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, uveitis or Crohn’s disease, this comprehensive guide on how to inject Yuflyma at home will walk you through every step with clarity and confidence.

What is Yuflyma?

Yuflyma® (adalimumab-aaty), which you may be preparing to administer, is not just a standard therapeutic agent; it is, in fact, a biosimilar medication. As a biosimilar, it is highly similar to an existing biological medication, known as the ‘reference product’, which in this case is adalimumab, marketed under the brand name Humira®. Extensive comparison through analytical studies has shown that Yuflyma matches its reference in terms of potency, safety, and efficacy.

Despite the similarities, it is important to note that biosimilars are not labeled as “generic” versions of biologic medications because biologics are derived from living cells and are inherently complex, and it is impossible to create an exact copy. Rest assured, before approval, Yuflyma has gone through rigorous regulatory pathways to confirm that it is as safe and efficacious as the original biologic.

Preparing for Your First Self-Injection

Excited? Maybe a little nervous? Totally normal feelings when you’re about to take charge of your health in a hands-on way.

How to Inject Yuflyma at Home – Starting Steps

  1. Clean Workspace: First thing’s first—find yourself a clean, well-lit area to prepare.
  2. Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and water. It’s simple, but it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent infection.
  3. Gather Supplies: Get your Yuflyma pre-filled syringe or pen, alcohol wipes, cotton balls, and a sharps container for disposal.
  4. Storage Savvy: Remember, Yuflyma should be stored in the refrigerator. If it’s too cold to the touch, let it sit out for 30 minutes to reach room temperature. Never use a microwave or hot water to warm it.

Step-by-Step Injection Guide

Here’s the meat and potatoes of what you came for—how to inject Yuflyma at home:

  1. Check It: Inspect your Yuflyma. It should be clear, and colorless to slightly yellow. If it’s cloudy or has particles, don’t use it.
  2. Skin Selection: Choose your injection spot—either the front of your thighs or your belly, avoiding the waistline and staying two inches clear of the navel.
  3. Clean Up: Swipe the selected area with an alcohol wipe and let it air dry.
  4. Get Grip-Ready: Hold the pen firmly. Remove the needle cover when you’re set to go.
  5. Pinch an Inch: With your free hand, gently pinch the skin around the injection site.
  6. Needle in, Steady: Press the pen firmed onto your pinched skin at 90-degree angle.
  7. Plunge with Confidence: Press the plunger down and steadily until all the medication is injected. It typically take 10 to 15 seconds.
  8. Release and Withdraw: Let go of your skin. Pull the needle out while keeping it at the same angle it went in.
  9. Praise and Press: Give yourself a little internal high-five for a job well done. Place a cotton ball over the site and apply pressure for a bit. If there’s bleeding, that’s okay. Just keep the pressure on a little longer.
  10. Sensible Disposal: Don’t recap the needle. Pop it straight into the sharps container. Of note, Yufyma does have a free sharp container delivery service to your home as well as free returns.

Doesn’t sound too tricky, right? Remember, practice makes perfect.

Common Concerns

Feeling some nerves approach as the injection day circles on your calendar? It’s totally okay.

What About Side Effects?

Yuflyma, like any medication, can come with side effects, including:

  • Injection site reactions
  • Upper respiratory infections
  • Headaches
  • Rash

For a complete list, always refer to the medication guide provided with your prescription as well as your doctor.

Tips and Tricks for Successful Home Injections

  • Consistency is Key: Stick to a routine. Consistent timing can help make self-injections second nature.
  • Record Keeping: Keep a diary of your injection sites. This helps in rotating sites and tracking your condition.
  • Support System: Get your family or friends involved. A support system can offer a helping hand or emotional backing.

In Conclusion: Empower Yourself

Learning how to inject Yuflyma at home is a commitment to your well-being and health autonomy. Even though administering your injection might feel overwhelming at first, with each little push of the plunger, you’ll become more adept and confident in your ability to manage your treatment.

Call to Action: Take the First Step

Every journey begins with a single step — your health journey is no different. If you’ve been prescribed Yuflyma, start by discussing your treatment plan in-depth with your healthcare provider. Once you’re ready, gather your courage (and your supplies!) and take charge of your health, one injection at a time.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is offered to educate the general public. The information posted on this website does not replace professional medical advice but for general information purposes only. There is no Doctor – Patient relationship established. We strongly advised you to speak with your medical professional if you have questions concerning your symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Self-Injection Videos

How to Inject Hyrimoz at Home: A User-Friendly Guide

March 12, 2024

Injecting medication at home can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. If your doctor has prescribed Hyrimoz for your condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, uveitis or Crohn’s disease, this comprehensive guide on how to inject Hyrimoz at home will walk you through every step with clarity and confidence.

What is Hyrimoz?

Hyrimoz® (adalimumab-adaz), which you may be preparing to administer, is not just a standard therapeutic agent; it is, in fact, a biosimilar medication. As a biosimilar, it is highly similar to an existing biological medication, known as the ‘reference product’, which in this case is adalimumab, marketed under the brand name Humira®. Extensive comparison through analytical studies has shown that Hyrimoz matches its reference in terms of potency, safety, and efficacy.

Despite the similarities, it is important to note that biosimilars are not labeled as “generic” versions of biologic medications because biologics are derived from living cells and are inherently complex, and it is impossible to create an exact copy. Rest assured, before approval, Hyrimoz has gone through rigorous regulatory pathways to confirm that it is as safe and efficacious as the original biologic.

Preparing for Your First Self-Injection

Excited? Maybe a little nervous? Totally normal feelings when you’re about to take charge of your health in a hands-on way.

How to Inject Hyrimoz at Home – Starting Steps

  1. Clean Workspace: First thing’s first—find yourself a clean, well-lit area to prepare.
  2. Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and water. It’s simple, but it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent infection.
  3. Gather Supplies: Get your Hyrimoz pre-filled syringe or pen, alcohol wipes, cotton balls, and a sharps container for disposal.
  4. Storage Savvy: Remember, Hyrimoz should be stored in the refrigerator. If it’s too cold to the touch, let it sit out for 30 minutes to reach room temperature. Never use a microwave or hot water to warm it.

Step-by-Step Injection Guide

Here’s the meat and potatoes of what you came for—how to inject Hyrimoz at home:

  1. Check It: Inspect your Hyrimoz. It should be clear, and colorless to slightly yellow. If it’s cloudy or has particles, don’t use it.
  2. Skin Selection: Choose your injection spot—either the front of your thighs or your belly, avoiding the waistline and staying two inches clear of the navel.
  3. Clean Up: Swipe the selected area with an alcohol wipe and let it air dry.
  4. Get Grip-Ready: Hold the pen firmly. Remove the needle cover when you’re set to go.
  5. Pinch an Inch: With your free hand, gently pinch the skin around the injection site.
  6. Needle in, Steady: Press the pen firmed onto your pinched skin at 90-degree angle.
  7. Plunge with Confidence: Press the plunger down and steadily until all the medication is injected. It typically take 10 to 15 seconds.
  8. Release and Withdraw: Let go of your skin. Pull the needle out while keeping it at the same angle it went in.
  9. Praise and Press: Give yourself a little internal high-five for a job well done. Place a cotton ball over the site and apply pressure for a bit. If there’s bleeding, that’s okay. Just keep the pressure on a little longer.
  10. Sensible Disposal: Don’t recap the needle. Pop it straight into the sharps container. Of note, Hyrimoz does have a free sharp container delivery service to your home as well as free returns.

Doesn’t sound too tricky, right? Remember, practice makes perfect.

Common Concerns

Feeling some nerves approach as the injection day circles on your calendar? It’s totally okay.

What About Side Effects?

Hyrimoz, like any medication, can come with side effects, including:

  • Injection site reactions
  • Upper respiratory infections
  • Headaches
  • Rash

For a complete list, always refer to the medication guide provided with your prescription as well as your doctor.

Tips and Tricks for Successful Home Injections

  • Consistency is Key: Stick to a routine. Consistent timing can help make self-injections second nature.
  • Record Keeping: Keep a diary of your injection sites. This helps in rotating sites and tracking your condition.
  • Support System: Get your family or friends involved. A support system can offer a helping hand or emotional backing.

In Conclusion: Empower Yourself

Learning how to inject Hyrimoz at home is a commitment to your well-being and health autonomy. Even though administering your injection might feel overwhelming at first, with each little push of the plunger, you’ll become more adept and confident in your ability to manage your treatment.

Call to Action: Take the First Step

Every journey begins with a single step — your health journey is no different. If you’ve been prescribed Hyrimoz, start by discussing your treatment plan in-depth with your healthcare provider. Once you’re ready, gather your courage (and your supplies!) and take charge of your health, one injection at a time.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is offered to educate the general public. The information posted on this website does not replace professional medical advice but for general information purposes only. There is no Doctor – Patient relationship established. We strongly advised you to speak with your medical professional if you have questions concerning your symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Diseases and Conditions When to see a rheumatologist

I have a positive HLA-B27 what does it mean?

June 5, 2018
I have a positive HLA-B27 what does it mean?

During the course of a workup for possible autoimmune arthritis or autoimmune back disease, your rheumatologist may order something called a HLA-B27 test.  So what does a positive HLA-B27 mean?

HLA-B27 antigen

HLA-B27 is a genetic test. The majority of people who have a positive HLA-B27 are perfectly healthy. HOWEVER, having a positive HLA-B7 can put you at increased risk of developing what we call spondyloarthritis-associated diseases. This is a family of autoimmune diseases.

Spondyloarthritis-associated diseases

  • Ankylosing spondylitis (AS), now called axial spondylitis
  • Peripheral spondyloarthritis
  • Reactive arthritis
  • Psoriasis
  • Psoriatic arthritis
  • Uveitis
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Ulcerative colitis

I have a positive HLA-B27, what does it mean?

The answer to this question highly depends on your situation.  As I mentioned earlier, many people who have a positive HLA-B27 are perfectly healthy.  More specifically, the majority of these people do NOT have an autoimmune disease.  Here are a few stats to put things into perspective.

  • About 6 to 9 % of Caucasians and 3 % of African-Americans have a positive HLA-B27.
  • However, having a positive HLA-B27 increases a person’s risk of ankylosing spondylitis by 50 to 100 times.
  • But only 2 % of people who have a positive HLA-B27 go on to develop ankylosing spondylitis.
  • About 50% of people with psoriatic arthritis that involves the spine have a positive HLA-B27.
  • 60% of people diagnosed with reactive arthritis have a positive HLA-B27. These people tend to have more severe symptoms, non-joint symptoms (e.g., uveitis), and it tends to last longer.
  • In the West, 50% of cases of anterior uveitis is associated with a positive HLA-B27 and about half of these people will develop spondyloarthritis.

I was diagnosed with AS, should I have my kids tested?

Technically not unless a family member is experiencing symptoms suggestive of ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, or any other spondyloarthritis-associated disease.  Remember, only 2% of people with a positive HLA-B27 go on to develop ankylosing spondylitis, which is the main autoimmune disease associated with this test.

However, people who have a positive HLA-B27 AND have a first-degree relative with ankylosing spondylitis have a 15% to 20% risk of developing the disease at some point during their lifetime.

I guess the answer whether to or whether not to test your kids really is a matter of choice.  My opinion is, if it’s going to happen it’s going to happen. All we really can do is try to make healthy life choices like eating clean, staying active, reduce stress, and making sure we sleep enough.  Remember the Blue Zones Principles?

For some people, knowing they tested positive for HLA-B27 may increase their stress level and for others not knowing whether they test positive or not may be more harmful. Whatever decision you make is highly personal.

In summary

Why having a HLA-B27 increases risk of having ankylosing spondylitis as well as a host of different autoimmune diseases is still uncertain: arthrogenic peptide hypothesis, molecular mimicry, free heavy chain hypothesis, and unfolded protein hypothesis.  These are very complex concepts, which I will hold off on discussing further.

If you want to learn more about HLA-B27 and spondyloarthritis, I invite you to read the following articles: What is autoimmune back pain? Guide to living with psoriatic arthritis: part 1, and What is autoimmune joint pain?

If you think you may be suffering from a spondyloarthritis-associated condition, I encourage you to get in touch with your local rheumatologist.  Here is a link to the American College of Rheumatology physician directory.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is offered to educate the general public. The information posted on this website does not replace professional medical advice, but for general information purposes only. There is no Doctor – Patient relationship established. We strongly advised you to speak with your medical professional if you have questions concerning your symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

References

Rheumatology Secrets, 3rd edition