As I did with Simponi, I’m going to devote a page to my observations/experience with Enbrel so those of you who are looking for information on that particular drug can find it easily. See the page titled “Everything Enbrel”.
Thanks for checking in.
A Page Just for Enbrel
10 Thursday Dec 2009
Posted in Medical, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Health, Enbrel
Thank you so much. Enbrel is one of the biologics that my rheumy mentioned, so I’m looking for information.
I’ve taken Enbrel for seven years, weekly self-injected shots. I had incredible luck. Was near the end of my rope having used methotrexate, chemo-drugs, and every NSAID availble.
Not only did Enbrel significantly improve my condition, it stopped further joint damage and corrected stomach problems I’d had for years.
I’m told I’m the poster boy for Enbrel and I have to agree.
The only difficulty, of course, is the cost. Congress is now debating provisions to permit a generic form of the drug and Pfizer, which bought Wyeth, is working toward a generic.
Enbrel is the safest of these types of drugs for arthritis. It has a short half-life, meaning it will be out of your system quicker.
There is the possible threat of pneumonia (I haven’t experienced that) and skin irritation (I’ve had none).
It is an immune system depressant so I make sure to get flu shots and am very careful about contracting colds. However, if you believe you may be getting sick, you can skip an injection in order to lesson the potential for respiratory infection.
There may be more things to learn about long term impacts, but my life has been so improved that it is worth the risk. I didn’t have a life before Enbrel. I suffered horrible fatigue, constant pain, headaches, and a general malaise that have virtually disappeared.
I’d say it’s worth a try.