Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: ETANERCEPT - INJECTION (ee-TAN-er-cept)
BRAND NAME(S): Enbrel
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat certain types of arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid, psoriatic, and ankylosing spondylitis). It is also used to treat certain skin conditions (psoriasis).
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, mental/mood changes, severe headache, signs of infections (e.g., persistent sore throat, fever), butterfly rash (i.e., rash on nose and cheeks), extreme fatigue. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: tingling of the hands or feet, unsteadiness, unexplained muscle weakness, seizures, vision changes, unusual bruising or bleeding. Though very unlikely, you may have a slight increased risk of developing cancer (e.g., lymphoma) to this medication. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms such as: unusual lumps/growths, swollen glands, night sweats, unexplained weight loss. 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.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
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- Rheumatoid Arthritis - Learn more about rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that causes chronic joint inflammation, which has symptoms that include stiffness, fever, muscle and joint aches, loss of appetite, and fatigue. Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis incorporates the use of first-line drugs (aspirin and corticosteroids for pain and inflammation) and second-line drugs (methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine to prevent joint destruction and promote remission).
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