Side Effects of Etanercept: An Introduction
As with any medicine, side effects can occur
etanercept (
Enbrel®). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. If people do develop side effects, in many cases, they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with etanercept. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of etanercept side effects with you.)
Etanercept Side Effects to Report
Some side effects with etanercept, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:
- Symptoms of an infection, including:
- Cough
- Chills
- Fever
- Weakness
- Numb or tingling feeling
- Changes in vision
- Weakness in your arms and/or legs, along with dizziness
- Chest pain (see Enbrel and Heart Attacks)
- Signs of an allergic reaction, including:
- An unexplained rash
- Hives
- Itching
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Unexplained swelling
- Fever, sore throat, chills, and other signs of infection
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Difficult or painful urination
- Blood in the urine
- Unusual bleeding, bruising, or pale skin
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swelling of the legs or arms
- Depression (see Enbrel and Depression).
