Enbrel is a protein-based drug used to limit damage caused by certain autoimmune disorders. Enbrel prevents the body from making tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a protein involved in immune and inflammatory responses. Individuals with autoimmune conditions such as arthritis and psoriasis have too much TNF in their bodies and can use Enbrel to lower TNF levels to control these conditions. The neurological side effects of Enbrel are rare but potentially dangerous. Ask your doctor to explain the side effects of Enbrel before beginning treatment.
Headaches
The most common reported neurological side effect of Enbrel is headache. According to Enbrel drug safety information reproduced on Drugs.com, about 20 percent of patients on Enbrel therapy have reported headaches as a side effect of Enbrel use.
Dizziness
Drugs.com and the Mayo Clinic list dizziness and lightheadedness as another common side effect of Enbrel. About 10 percent of patients receiving Enbrel treatments have reported experiencing dizziness while using Enbrel.
Multiple Sclerosis
A rare number of side effects indicative of demyelinating disorders such as multiple sclerosis and certain neuropathies have been reported in response to Enbrel use. Drug safety information provided by Enbrel.com explains that some of these effects are associated with mental status changes and permanent disability. A small number of case studies listed on Drugs.com mentions that such side effects usually subside after discontinuation of Enbrel use.
Other Demyelination Disorders
Enbrel.com reports a small number of other neuropathic side effects associated with demyelinating disorders. These side effects include transverse myelitis, visual disturbances, neuritis, seizures, paresthesia, confusion, gait disturbance, facial palsy and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Patients prone to these conditions should exercise caution while considering Enbrel use.
More Rare Neurological Side Effects
According to Drugs.com and the Mayo Clinic, stroke and seizures have been reported by a small number of patients while using Enbrel.
Member Comments