Key facts about Enbrel
What is Enbrel?
Enbrel is the brand name for etanercept subcutaneous injection.
What dosages is Enbrel available in?
Enbrel is available as a 50 mg single-use prefilled syringe, 50 mg single-use prefilled SureClick® Autoinjector, 25 mg single-use prefilled syringe and 25 mg multiple-use vial.
What is Enbrel used for?
Enbrel is a monoclonal antibody that is used to treat:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
- Plaque psoriasis (PsO) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA)
- Ankylosing spondylitis (AS)
- Childhood arthritis (polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, JIA)
How does Enbrel work?
Enbrel is a monoclonal antibody. It binds to a protein called TNF and blocks inflammation to help with symptoms of certain types of arthritis and skin conditions.
How do I take Enbrel?
Enbrel is dosed as follows:
Adults
- Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis: The typical dose is 50 mg injected under the skin once a week
- Plaque psoriasis: The starting dose is 50 mg injected under the skin twice a week for 3 months. Afterwards, your provider will lower your dose to 50 mg per week
Children
- Plaque psoriasis and polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis: The dose will be based on the child’s weight
- 63 kg (138 lbs) or more: The typical dose is 50 mg injected under the skin once per week.
- Less than 63 kg (138 lbs): The typical dose is 0.8 mg/kg injected under the skin once per week
Is it safe for me to take Enbrel?
Enbrel is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you have sepsis.
Enbrel Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Enbrel:
- Infection (including common cold/flu)
- Injection site reaction
- Diarrhea
Enbrel Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Enbrel. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Serious infections: High fever, difficulty breathing, cough that won’t go away, night sweats, confusion
- Allergic reactions: Difficulty breathing, face swelling, fast heartbeat, severe rash
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Enbrel
The following medications may interact with Enbrel:
- Live vaccines – should not be given with Enbrel.
- Anakinra – increased risk of serious infection.
- Abatacept – increased risk of serious adverse events, including
- infections.
- Cyclophosphamide – use with Enbrel is not recommended.
Who makes Enbrel?
Amgen Inc.
Is Enbrel safe in pregnancy?
Enbrel may cause harm to your unborn baby based on animal data. Enbrel should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
To monitor outcomes of pregnant women exposed to Enbrel, a pregnancy registry has been established. Physicians are encouraged to register patients by calling 1-877-311-8972.
