Etanercept
What is Etanercept?
Etanercept is a medication used to manage and treat autoimmune conditions such as plaque psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis (1)(2)(3)(4)(5). It's categorized as a biologic fusion protein in the TNF blocker class of medications (1). The medicine works by inhibiting the action of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a body substance that induces inflammation (1)(5).
Dosage
The dosage of Etanercept depends on the condition under treatment and the patient's weight (1)(2)(3)(5). Typically, the dosage for Etanercept ranges from 25mg to 50mg weekly, administered subcutaneously (1)(2)(3)(5). Treatment duration is usually long-term, dependent on the specific ailment (1)(2).
Side Effects
Generally, Etanercept is well-tolerated with infrequent side effects (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6). Some potential side effects with subcutaneous administration include injection site reactions, infections, headache, and nausea (1)(2)(3)(4)(5). Rarely, Etanercept can lead to more severe side effects like allergic reactions, heart failure, or blood disorders (1)(2)(3)(4)(5).
Interactions
There's a possibility of Etanercept interacting with certain medications. Hence, it's advised to consult with a medical expert before combining Etanercept with other drugs or supplements (1)(3)(5).
Time of Day and With or Without Food
Etanercept is typically administered once weekly and can be consumed with or without food (1)(2)(3)(5).
Human Studies
Research on Etanercept has shown potential benefits for managing and treating autoimmune diseases such as plaque psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis (1)(2)(3)(4)(5). While it's predominantly well-tolerated with rare side effects, there's a need for further studies to understand its full therapeutic capabilities.
Summary:
Etanercept, categorized as a biologic fusion protein, functions by inhibiting the action of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in the body, which causes inflammation. It's employed for managing and treating various autoimmune conditions. Depending on the condition and the patient's weight, the dosage typically varies between 25mg and 50mg weekly. While side effects are rare, there are potential interactions with other drugs, warranting a medical consultation. Etanercept's therapeutic potential for autoimmune diseases has been backed by research, yet more studies are required for comprehensive insights.
Citations:
(1) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545252/
(2) https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/etanercept-subcutaneous-route/description/drg-20066850
(3) https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a602013.html
(4) https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/etanercept-subcutaneous-route/side-effects/drg-20066850?p=1
(5) https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-16747/etanercept-subcutaneous/details
(6) https://www.enbrel.com