Drug
Etanercept
Pronounced
"ee-TAN-er-cept"
Uses
This medication is used alone or in combination with an immunosuppressant (such as methotrexate) to treat certain types of arthritis (such as rheumatoid, psoriatic, juvenile idiopathic, and ankylosing spondylitis). Some brands of this medication are also used to treat a skin condition called psoriasis. These conditions are caused by an overactive immune system (autoimmune disease). The immune system attacks the body's own healthy cells, causing inflammation in the joints and skin.
Etanercept controls your body's defensive response by blocking the action of a certain natural substance (TNF) that is used by the immune system. Treatment decreases redness, itching and scaly patches in psoriasis as well as the pain, swelling and stiffness of joints in arthritis. This medication can stop the progression of disease and joint damage, resulting in improved daily functioning and quality of life.
This medication treats but does not cure autoimmune diseases. Symptoms usually return within 1 month of stopping the medication.
Warning
Because etanercept works by blocking the immune system, it may lower your ability to fight infections. This may make you more likely to get a serious (rarely fatal) infection (such as fungal infections, bacterial infections including tuberculosis) or make any infection you have worse. Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of past/recent/current infections. Also, tell your doctor if you have lived or traveled in areas where certain fungal infections (such as coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis) are common or if you have been near someone with tuberculosis. Areas where these types of fungal infections are commonly found include the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys and the southwestern United States. You should be tested for tuberculosis (TB skin test or chest X-ray) before and during treatment with etanercept. Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of infection (such as sore throat or cough that doesn't go away, fever, chills, night sweats, painful/frequent urination, unusual vaginal discharge, white patches in the mouth).
The immune system is also important in preventing and controlling cancer. Though it is very unlikely to happen, there is a risk (especially in children/teens/young adults) of developing cancer (such as lymphoma, skin) due to this medication or due to your medical condition. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms such as fever that doesn't go away, unusual lumps/growths, swollen or painful abdomen, unexplained weight loss, or night sweats.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using this drug and each time you get a refill. Ask your health care professional how to prepare and use this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Inject this medication under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice a week. The injection is given in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Children's dosage is also based on weight.
Take the medication out of the refrigerator at least 15 to 30 minutes before you inject it to allow it to reach room temperature. Do not warm up this medication any other way (for example, do not heat it in the microwave or place it in hot water). Do not shake the medication. Before using, check this product for particles, cloudiness, or discoloration. The prefilled syringe, cartridge, or pen injector may have small white particles in the liquid. This is normal. If you see other particles, cloudiness, or discoloration, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. Do not inject into skin that is sore, bruised, red, or hard. To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it on the same day(s) each week.
You may notice improvement in your condition after 1 to 2 weeks, but it may take a few months to get the full benefit of this medication. Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.