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Other drug names: | A-Am An-Az B C-Ch Ci-Cz D-Dh Di-Dz E F G H I-J K-L M-Mh Mi-Mz N-Nh Ni-Nz O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q-R S-Sn So-Sz T-To Tp-Tz U-V W-Z 0-9 |
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Etanercept is used alone or in combination with other medications to reduce the pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Etanercept is in a class of medications called tumor-necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors. It works by blocking the activity of TNF, a substance in the body that causes swelling and joint damage in arthritis.
Etanercept comes as a solution to inject subcutaneously (under the skin). It is usually injected twice a week. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use etanercept exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
You can inject etanercept in the thigh, stomach, or upper arm. To reduce the chances of soreness or redness, use a different site for each injection.The new injection should be given at least 1 inch away from the previous injection. Do not inject into an area where the skin is tender, bruised, red, or hard.
Dispose of used needles and syringes in a puncture-resistant container. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how to dispose of the puncture-resistant container.
Before you use etanercept for the first time, read the manufacturer's information for the patient that comes with it. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you how to inject etanercept.
Before preparing an etanercept dose, wash your hands with soap and water. To prepare the area of the skin where you will inject etanercept, wipe it with an alcohol swab.
To prepare and inject etanercept, follow these steps:
If it is hard for you to prepare a dose because of arthritis of the hand, you may use another method to prepare etanercept. Speak to your health care provider and refer to the manufacturer's information.
Some children may use one vial of etanercept solution for more than one dose. Do not mix the contents of one etanercept vial with the contents of another vial. Ask your health care provider for directions on how to prepare a dose from a vial that was already used.
Etanercept also is used sometimes to treat psoriasis and ankylosing spondylitis. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Before taking etanercept,
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Etanercept may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
Etanercept may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store the tray containing etanercept powder in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Once water is added to the powder, the solution may be stored in the refrigerator for up to 14 days. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body's response to etanercept.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
Last Revised - 01/01/2003
The MedMaster Patient Drug Information database provides information copyrighted by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., Bethesda, Maryland Copyright© 2004. All Rights Reserved.
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Page last updated: 04 October 2004 |