Autoimmune diseases are a group of diseases in which the individual’s immune system targets and attacks the body’s own healthy tissues causing inflammation and tissue damage. With so many autoimmune diseases, ranging from Rheumatoid Arthritis to multiple sclerosis, the development of effective treatments is of utmost importance to improving the quality of life for patients. In recent years, two treatments, Humira and Xeljanz, have emerged as two of the most promising treatments when it comes to treating autoimmune diseases.

Humira is a biologic medicine, meaning that it is created from living organisms or components of living organisms, in this case, it is made from human proteins. Humira is an immunosuppressant, meaning it works by slowing down the production of cells that are responsible for inflammation, ultimately resulting in reduced pain and swelling. Humira is approved to treat a number of autoimmune diseases, including, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Plaque Psoriasis, and Ankylosing Spondylitis. It is also approved to treat Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and
Hidradenitis Suppurativa.

Xeljanz is similar to Humira in that it is a biologic medicine. Unlike Humira, Xeljanz works by blocking a particular type of inflammatory cell, rather than slowing down the production of inflammation causing cells. Unlike Humira, Xeljanz is approved only to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis and Psoriatic Arthritis. Xeljanz could be an effective treatment for those patients who have already tried Humira and other anti-inflammatory medications but have not found relief.

Overall, Humira and Xeljanz have shown to be effective treatments for autoimmune diseases such as Rheumatoid Arthritis and Psoriatic Arthritis. They have both decreased inflammation and significantly improved the quality of life for patients with these conditions. While there are possible side effects of these medications such as infections, levels of inflammation can be monitored and the medications adjusted to prevent exacerbation of symptoms. It is important for individuals to discuss all possible treatments for their autoimmune diseases with their doctor so that the best treatment approach can be chosen for their individual situatuion.