Etanercept

Dosage Forms Available

• Etanercept is available for use via the subcutaneous injection route.

• It comes in various formulations including single-dose prefilled syringes, single-dose prefilled autoinjectors, and multiple-dose vials.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Etanercept is meant for both adults and children.

• Children should be more than 2 years old to be given this medication.

Contraindications

• This medication is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to Etanercept or any of its ingredients.

• Patients having any active infections should not start with this medicine.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medicine can interact with anti-TNF agents (such as infliximab) and biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic medicines (like abatacept and anakinra).

• It is strongly recommended to avoid live vaccines while using Etanercept.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• If an overdose occurs, it may lead to symptoms such as dizziness, fever, itching, and shortness of breath. In such cases, please get immediate medical attention.

• If you miss a dose of Etanercept, administer it as soon as you remember. But if it is near the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your dosing schedule.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor. If you encounter injection site reactions like redness or itching:

• Try cooling the area before injecting.

• Keep rotating the sites of injection.

• For management of upper respiratory infections:

• Drink plenty of fluids to ease congestion.

• Take adequate rest.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Etanercept may cause side effects such as dizziness and fatigue that can affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Avoid these activities if you experience such symptoms.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Etanercept should only be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding under the direction of a doctor.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with a history of recurrent infections or prone to infections, such as open cuts, should exercise caution when taking this medicine.

• Patients should also inform the doctor if they have had tuberculosis or hepatitis B prior to starting this medication.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains to support overall health and immunity.

• Regular mild to moderate physical activity can help keep joints flexible and strengthen the muscles supporting them, especially for people with rheumatoid arthritis.

• Avoiding stress or learning stress-management techniques may also help manage symptoms of autoimmune diseases.

• Limiting alcohol intake and quitting smoking can reduce inflammation and benefit overall health.