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Etanercept (Systemic)

Contents of this page:

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S.--


Category


Description

Etanercept (ee-tan-NER-cept) is injected under the skin to reduce signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint swelling, pain, tiredness, and duration of morning stiffness.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form(s):


Before Using This Medicine

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of using the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For etanercept, the following should be considered:

Allergies--Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to etanercept or any of its components. Also tell your health care professional if you are allergic to any other substances, such as foods, preservatives, or dyes.

The needle cover on the pre-filled diluent syringe is made from latex (rubber product). If you are allergic to latex (rubber products), talk to your doctor before using.

Pregnancy--Etanercept has not been studied in pregnant women. Etanercept has not been shown to cause birth defects or other problems in animal studies.

Breast-feeding--It is not known whether etanercept passes into breast milk. However, etanercept may possibly cause serious side effects in nursing infants. Mothers who are using this medicine and who wish to breast-feed should discuss this with their doctor.

Children--Etanercept has been tested in children 4 to 17 years of age. Studies indicate that etanercept may reduce signs and symptoms in patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Stomach pain and vomiting were seen more often in children than in adults.

Older adults--Etanercept has been tested in elderly patients and has not been found to cause different side effects or problems in older people than it does in younger adults.

Other medicines--Tell your health care professional if you are using any other prescription, nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine, or vaccinations.

Other medical problems--The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of etanercept. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:


Proper Use of This Medicine

If you are injecting this medicine yourself, each package of etanercept will contain a patient instruction sheet. Read this sheet carefully and make sure you understand :

Dosing--The dose of etanercept may be different for different patients. Your doctor will decide on the right dose for you.

Missed dose--If you miss a dose of this medicine, use it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage--To store this medicine:


Precautions While Using This Medicine

It is important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.

Your body's ability to fight infection may be reduced while you are being treated with etanercept, it is very important that you call your doctor at the first signs of any infection (for example, if you get a fever or chills).

While you are being treated with etanercept, do not have any immunizations (vaccinations) without your doctor's approval .


Side Effects of This Medicine

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Rare

Black, tarry stools; headache; nosebleeds; pale skin; shortness of breath; sores, ulcers, or white spots on lips or in mouth; swollen or painful glands; tightness in chest; unusual tiredness or weakness; unusual bleeding or bruising; wheezing

Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

Other side effects not listed above also may occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.


Developed: 06/03/1999
Revised: 11/01/2000
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Last updated: 24 January 2001