Downsides

You are more likely to have the following side effects if you are between the ages of 18 and 60, do not take any other medications, or have any other medical conditions:

• The most common side effects reported are injection site reactions (such as redness, pain, and swelling at the injection site) and upper respiratory tract infections.
• According to post-marketing reports, Enbrel increases a person's risk of infection by about 20%. Invasive fungal infections, such as histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, candidiasis, aspergillosis, blastomycosis, and pneumocystosis; bacterial infections; viral infections; and other infections, such as legionella or listeria, have been reported. People with a history of chronic or recurring infection may be ineligible.
• Before starting Enbrel, all patients should be tested for latent tuberculosis and, if positive, treatment should be started.
• Before beginning Enbrel treatment, ensure that all patients have received all of the appropriate immunizations for their age, as recommended by national guidelines. It is critical that people who have been given Enbrel do not receive live vaccines.
• Because it is such an unstable molecule, it is unable to be administered orally (as are most other biologics). This is why it must be administered via injection.
• Some people, including those with a history of hepatitis B, heart failure, or nervous system problems, may be ineligible.
• Enbrel is linked to an increased risk of lymphoma and other cancers.
• Must be kept cold (between 2°C and 8°C; 36°F and 46°F). To protect against light, store in the original carton. Can be maintained at room temperature for up to 14 days at a maximum of 77°F (25°C). Avoid shaking, heating, freezing, and exposing to direct sunlight. Don't put Enbrel back in the fridge after storing it at room temperature, and throw it away if you don't use it within 14 days.
• It is unknown how Enbrel affects a developing baby, but your doctor may recommend it if the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Enbrel, notify your doctor right away. It is unknown whether previous Enbrel administration affects live vaccinations given to newborns shortly after birth. Enbrel is found in low concentrations in human milk and is only slightly absorbed by a breastfed infant. There are no data on its effects.
• There is no generic version of Enbrel available.

In general, those who are older or younger, have specific medical conditions (including liver or kidney issues, heart disease, diabetes, or seizure disorders), use other medications, or are seniors or young children are more likely to experience a greater range of adverse effects.