Enbrel

Enbrel may worsen congestive heart failure. If you have this condition, make sure the doctor knows about it; Enbrel should be used with caution.

Enbrel has been known to trigger a condition similar to lupus. If you develop warning signs such as raised patches of red skin, see the doctor immediately. Enbrel therapy may have to be stopped.

Also check with your doctor immediately if you develop warning signs of a blood disorder, including such symptoms as persistent fever, bruising, bleeding, or paleness. You may have to stop taking Enbrel.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Enbrel

The immune system blocking action of Enbrel can lower your resistance to infection. Combining Enbrel with other rheumatoid arthritis drugs, such as anakinra, can lower your resistance even more, possibly leading to a severe infection. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drugs you are taking.

You should also avoid getting vaccinations that contain active, live viruses while taking Enbrel. However, other types of vaccines (such as those with inactive viruses) may be given during treatment with Enbrel.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Enbrel during pregnancy have not been studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.

It is not known whether Enbrel appears in breast milk, but because there is a possible risk to the infant, you should either give up nursing while taking Enbrel or discontinue the drug. Discuss the problem with your doctor.

Recommended dosage for Enbrel

ADULTS 18 YEARS AND OLDER

Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis

The total dose is 50 milligrams per week, given as one 50-milligram injection at separate sites. The injections are given under the skin either on the same day or 3 to 4 days apart.

Plaque Psoriasis

The recommended dose is one 50-milligram injection given under the skin twice weekly (3 or 4 days apart) for 3 months. The medication will be reduced to one 50-milligram dose once a week.

CHILDREN 4 TO 17 YEARS OLD

Rheumatoid Arthritis

The recommended dose is 0.8 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight, up to a maximum of 50 milligrams, injected under the skin twice a week. The safety of Enbrel has not been studied in children less than 4 years old.

Overdosage

High doses of Enbrel do not appear to have any toxic effects. Nevertheless, if you suspect an overdose, you should notify your doctor.