Etanercept

Content provided by Cerner Multum, Inc.

What is the most important information I should know about etanercept?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to etanercept, or if you have a severe infection such as sepsis (infection of the blood).

Before using etanercept, tell your doctor if you have ever had tuberculosis, if anyone in your household has tuberculosis, or if you have recently traveled to an area where tuberculosis is common.

Also tell your doctor if you have a weak immune system, an infection (including a skin infection), diabetes, congestive heart failure, seizures, asthma, hepatitis B, a nerve disorder such as multiple sclerosis, or if you are allergic to latex.

Etanercept is not a cure for any autoimmune disorder and will only treat the symptoms of your condition.

Children using this medication should be current on all childhood immunizations before starting treatment with etanercept.

You may have pain, redness, swelling, or warmth where the medicine was injected. Call your doctor if these symptoms continue for longer than 5 days.

Etanercept can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections, making it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick. Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Your blood may need to be tested on a regular basis. If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using etanercept.

Using etanercept may increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer such as lymphoma (cancer of the lymph nodes). This risk may be greater in children and young adults. Talk to your doctor about your specific risk.

Last updated:	June 06, 2008