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What are the side effects of Enbrel?

Enbrel (generic name etanercept) is an injectable drug used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. It changes the immune response and helps relieve swelling, pain, and stiffness in the joints. The most common side effects are mild. They include redness, itching, and pain at the injection site. Also, Enbrel can make you more prone to get an infection. Let your doctor know if you have any symptoms of infection, including fever, cough, runny nose, or sore throat, while you’re taking it.

In rare cases, people have experienced severe anemia (a low level of blood cells) and nerve damage while taking Enbrel. It isn't known if these conditions were related to the drug. Notify your doctor if you experience any signs of anemia such as unusual bruising or bleeding. People with a medical history of severe anemia or nerve disorders should discuss these conditions with their physician before using Enbrel.

Don’t take Enbrel if you have a serious infection of any kind. Use the drug with caution if you have poorly controlled diabetes, because of the increased risk of infection.

Sources:
Enbrel product information, Immunex Corp.,2000.
Micromedex Healthcare Series. Micromedex, Inc., 2001.
Drug Warning: Enbrel, Immunex Corp., www.immunex.com, last accessed 10/11/00.

This answer prepared 1/25/01.