Enbrel Dangers

Enbrel^® (etanercept) is often prescribed for people with rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and other forms of arthritis, as well as people with plaque psoriasis. It comes in injectable form, and is usually given once or twice a week. Although this medicine is not particularly dangerous, Enbrel can cause side effects. In clinical studies, the most common ones were injection site reactions, infections, and headaches.

In addition, some people are more likely to experience problems with Enbrel than others -- and some people should avoid this drug altogether. For example, if you have an upcoming surgery or plans to receive certain "live" vaccinations, you may need to either use a different medication or postpone the vaccinations.

By understanding possible side effects and other Enbrel "dangers," you can help ensure your safety during treatment, as well as the drug's effectiveness. If you ever experience anything that just "does not seem right," do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider.

(To learn more about these and other possible dangers, click Enbrel Side Effects and Enbrel Warnings and Precautions. These articles describe in detail possible side effects, their frequency, and important safety precautions to be aware of before starting treatment.)