Enbrel, the brand name for etanercept, treats rheumatoid arthritis in adults and children. The medication works to lessen the arthritic symptoms in the joints and bones of sufferers. Available by injection only, the medication is administered under the skin one to two times a week. As with all medicine, there are risks associated with taking Enbrel. Some adverse reactions may cause serious medical complications. Because of the possibility of adverse reactions, the medication is used with extreme caution in children.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of using Enbrel include injection site pain, redness and irritation. Some people experience gastrointestinal distress including nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and heartburn. Headaches, chills, fever, runny nose, generalized weakness, a sore throat and a cough are additional commonly reported adverse reactions.
Serious Side Effects
Enbrel can cause a rash, blistering or peeling skin on the arms and face that will worsen with sun exposure. The medication is also responsible for causing bruising, seizures and dizziness in some individuals. Signs of an allergic reaction to Enbrel include swelling of the face, lips or airway, difficulty breathing, an increased heart rate and hives.
Tuberculosis (TB)
Using Enbrel increases the possibility of developing tuberculosis. According to the Mayo Clinic, TB is a lung infection characterized by unexplained weight loss, chills, night sweats, a loss of appetite, fatigue, chest pain, coughing up blood and fever. Individuals may become infected with TB but show no signs of an active infection. These individuals are most at risk for developing an active infection while taking Enbrel.
Infections
Enbrel lowers the body's natural immune system. This increases the chance of developing infections in the body. Individuals taking this medication have an increased chance of developing fungal, bacterial and viral infections. Staying rested, eating a healthy diet, practicing good hand-washing and avoid others who are sick helps decrease the chance of developing infections.
Cancer
According to MedlinePlus, using Enbrel increases the risk of developing lymphoma or leukemia. Lymphoma is defined as cancer cells in the immune system. Leukemia is cancer in the blood. Children using the medication have the highest possibility of developing lymphoma or leukemia while using Enbrel. Adolescents using the medicine need to be carefully monitored for any signs of cancer.
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