Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
ETANERCEPT - INJECTION
(ee-TAN-er-cept)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Enbrel
Uses
This medication is used to treat certain types of arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid, psoriatic, and ankylosing spondylitis).
How To Use
Use this medication exactly as prescribed. This drug is given under the skin (SC) twice weekly or as directed. Learn all the preparation and administration instructions in the product package and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unclear on any information. Rotate injection sites. New injections should be given at least one inch from an old site. Do not inject into areas of the skin that are sore, bruised, red or hard. Do not use if the liquid contains particles or is discolored. Make sure needles and any medical supplies are stored safely and disposed of properly.
Side Effects
Redness, itching, pain, or swelling at the injection site; colds; cough; headache; or nausea may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: chest pain, stomach pain, trouble breathing, persistent sore throat, fever, butterfly rash (i.e., rash on nose and cheeks), unusual fatigue. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: tingling of the hands or feet, unsteadiness, muscle weakness, vision changes, easy bruising or bleeding. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, including: immune system disorders, active or reoccurring infections, diabetes, certain brain/spinal cord disorders (demyelinating disorders such as multiple sclerosis), blood disorders, heart disease (e.g., heart failure), allergies. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. Consult your doctor about risks of exposure to chickenpox and other infections. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you may use, especially of: other arthritis drugs (e.g., methotrexate, prednisone, leflunomide), immune suppressors such as cyclosporine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist to establish a new dosing schedule.
Storage
Store unopened vials in a refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees F (2 and 8 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Once mixed, this drug must be used within 6 hours and should be stored in the refrigerator at 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C).
