How it works

Enbrel is a brand name (trade name) for etanercept, which is used to treat inflammatory conditions like psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Enbrel works by impersonating the p75 TNF receptor. TNF (tumor necrosis factor) is a cytokine that occurs naturally (cytokines are small proteins that are involved in interactions and communications between cells). Cytokines and other proteins are involved in the development of many inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as the subsequent joint destruction. TNF levels are elevated in the tissues and bodily fluids of people suffering from these conditions. TNF binds to one of two cell receptors known as p55 TNF receptors or p75 TNF receptors. TNF-alpha and TNF-beta bind to Enbrel rather than the cell surface TNF receptors because p75 serves as a dummy TNF receptor. TNF becomes inactive as a result.

Enbrel is a member of the group of drugs known as TNF inhibitors.