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Sunday, July 27, 2008

Enbrel SubQ

Precautions and Side Effects


Generic Name: ETANERCEPT - INJECTION
Pronounced: (ee-TAN-er-cept)

Enbrel SubQ Side Effects

Table of Contents

Redness, itching, pain, or swelling at the injection site may occur. This usually starts 1-2 days after the injection and clears up in 3-5 days. Injection site reactions usually lessen after the first month. Headache, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

  • a rash on nose and cheeks (butterfly rash)
  • dizziness
  • extreme fatigue
  • hair loss
  • severe stomach/abdominal pain
  • swelling of the arms/legs


Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur:

  • unusual bruising or bleeding
  • severe headache
  • mental/mood changes
  • unexplained muscle weakness
  • seizures
  • tingling of the hands/feet
  • unsteadiness
  • vision changes
  • dark urine
  • persistent nausea/vomiting
  • yellowing eyes/skin


Because etanercept works by blocking the immune system, it may lower your ability to fight infections. This may make you more likely to get a serious (rarely fatal) infection or make any infection you have worse. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any signs of infection (e.g., cough, cold, sore throat, fever).

The immune system is also important in preventing and controlling cancer. Though very unlikely, you may have a slightly increased risk of developing cancer (e.g., lymphoma) with this medication. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms such as:

  • unusual lumps/growths
  • swollen glands
  • night sweats
  • unexplained weight loss


An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

  • rash
  • itching
  • swelling
  • dizziness
  • trouble breathing


This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

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