Enbrel SubQ

Enbrel SubQ Warning

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. You should be tested for tuberculosis (TB skin test or chest X-ray) before and during treatment with etanercept. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any signs of infection such as cough, night sweats or fever.

Enbrel SubQ Side Effects

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

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 (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• 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.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. In the US, you may report side effects to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada, you may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.