Etanercept is a biological drug which inhibits tumor necrosis factor (TNF), which causes inflammation in the body.
etanercept
This medicine is used alone or in combination with methotrexate to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis refractive to PUVA or DMARDs including methotrexate. Severe, active and progressive rheumatoid arthritis not previously treated, active and progressive polyarticular-course juvenile idiopathic arthritis (arthritis in children) and psoriatic arthritis refractory to treatment, ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis affecting joints of spine), plaque psoriasis in adults and children where cyclosporin, PUVA, and methotrexate are not tolerated, ineffective or contraindicated.
Contradications
This medicine should not be used by patients with sepsis, active infection or risk of sepsis. Ensure adequate contraception while taking this medicine.Side effects
This medicine can cause abdominal pain, infections, headache, pruritis, fever, allergic reactions (discontinue treatment). Reports of malignancies, cardiovascular symptoms, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, dyspnea, seizures, bursitis, multiple sclerosis, optic neuritis, aplastic anemia, serious skin reactions. Pain and reaction at injection site.FAQs
What is Etanercept and how does it work?
Is Etanercept Over the Counter (OTC) drug?
No, it is not OTC. It is a prescribed medication in injectable form
Can I get myself vaccinated while taking this drug?
Before getting yourself vaccinated with a life vaccine eg; for measles or chicken pox, stop using this drug as it may interact with the vaccine. Please consult your doctor for further assistance.
Can this drug be taken with Cancer medication?
This drug should not be taken with cancer medication such as; Cyclophosphamide. Please tell your doctor before taking this drug if you’re taking any medicine for cancer.
Can I take this drug if I have hepatitis B virus infection?
No, do not take this drug if you are Hepatitis B infected because it can activate the virus and damage your liver. Take your doctor’s advice on this.
Can I take this drug if I have diabetes?
Etanercept may affect your body’s ability to control blood sugar. If you’re diabetic, consult your doctor as he may alter your diabetic medication accordingly.
Medicines containing etanercept
Rs.28250
