| Key to ratings for enbrel: 5-Very Satisfied: this medicine cured me or helped me a great deal. 4-Satisfied: this medicine helped. 3-Somewhat Satisfied: this medicine helped somewhat. 2-Not Satisfied: this medicine did not work to my satisfaction. 1-Dissatisfied: I would not recommend taking this medicine. |
| Rating | Reason | Side Effects | Comments | Sex | Age | Time Taken | Date Added | |
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| 4 | PA | Red cheeks and nose. Painful injection (50ml sureclick) | Day after taking first dose, felt like a million bucks. Better than I have felt in years. The effect wore off after a couple days and has not returned in subsequent injections. Did marginally help with joint pain. I guess any help is better than none. Been fighting this crap for a decade or two! Been taking Enbrel for 5 weeks. Will continue with the hopes of replicating the effects of this initial treatment. | M | 43 | 5 weeks | 11/6/2009 | 5 | psoriatic arthritus | None for 8 years, then an injection site reaction with every dose. | Started enbrel in 2001, woked terific till this year when arthritus came back. Dr switched me to humira 1 week ago. Will see how this does. | M | 55 | 8 years | 10/29/2009 | 3 | JRA/RA | Some Weight Gain, Hair Loss, injection site reactions. | I had been diagnosed with JRA at around the age of 9. Initially methotrexate and daily naproxen managed my condition (prednisone when needed). My condition went into a remission during my college years; I was taken off the methotrexate and maintained the naproxen. Around the age of 22 my RA started acting up again, I started on the methotrexate, flare ups were not near as bad as during my younger years, but inflammation and joint damage was apparent. It was decided that I start Enbrel given the fact the methotrexate alone was not enough. I have been on Enbrel for 6 weeks now, recent changes I have noticed is weight gain (6lbs), my eyelashes have thinned out some and it is difficult to say for my hair condition (I have long hair), and my injection sites swell, bruise and have a scaly feeling. Overall I feel great, I go to the gym daily without pain, can finally lift weights without ‘paying for it’ later, can sleep without braces (i.e. wrist brace); however, the side effects listed above are difficult to accept at the age of 27. Seeing the doctor Friday to discuss…. | F | 27 | 6 weeks | 10/25/2009 | 3 | JRA RF positive | I just started taking enbrel this week. I am on an accelerated schedule, so, I am taking two injections per week. Ouch. Because of my age and weight, I am not eligible for sure-click autoinjector, so I have to use a syringe, which makes it about 3 times as scary! I've recently been feeling very nauseous, has anyone else had this, or is it not a side effect? Headaches have also been developed, but they are not too painful. At least for now. | I am satisfied for now, and my arthritis pain has definitely declined, but I do have some side effects. Either way, it's short term pain for long term gain! Enliven services has been awesome! Thanks! | F | 12 | 7 days | 10/25/2009 | 5 | Psoriatic arthritis | Fatigue, some headaches, sinus congestion, maybe some weight gain, winter flu has been much more severe. | Is very effective for me. Went off Enbrel for a few months and symptoms returned,but went back on and had almost immediate improvement (2 days). | M | 47 | 2 years | 10/23/2009 | 4 | RA | Feeling a little tired lately. No other side effects. | Found out I had RA at 27. After months of complaining about joint pain, fatigue and night sweats my doctor decided to test me. My levels are low but the pain and swelling are severe. I started Enbrel and was quite concerned about the side effects but so far I feel great. I'm not sure I will ever feel comfortable jogging like I used to but at least I am able to do my everyday activities with out pain. | F | 28 | 4 months | 10/7/2009 | 5 | RA | Little or no side effects! I do have slight brusing at the injection site. However, this last only a day or two. I do get at least two colds a year...which includes sinus. I'm not sure that is due to Enbrel. | I have been taking Enbrel since 2005....was diagnosis with RA in 2001 and had severe pain on a daily basis. Enbrel is a Godsend for me...I take one 50mg a week! I now spring out of bed with no pain and climb the 10 steps to my bathroom and get ready for work. Climbing the stairs is my morning exercise...it makes me feel great, as a few years back I had difficulty climbing stairs. I'm able to wear heels again and this does wonders for my Psyche. I do have a question for anyone out there...has anyone experienced canker sore...I have had one for about 1 year now and nothing seems to work at getting rid of it! I should also note that I'm Diabetic and I also take Plaquenil and Levothyrox. Many individuals have written about "being tired" that is a side effect of RA as well....I don't feel I'm tired more than usual. | F | 47 | 5 years | 10/3/2009 | 2 | MCTD | After the third of once weekly 50mg injection, I started having flu like symptoms, fever, body aches, nausea etc. Also redness on nose and cheeks. | Had a severe allergic reaction to Plaquinil 6 months ago. Decided to try Enbrel. Have not felt any relief although only have taken 3 shots. Don't know if my flu like symptoms were a result of the medication or I actually had the flu. I'm not sure I want to continue. Anyone else with similar experience? I don't think I'll ever feel good again. | F | 54 | 3 weeks | 9/27/2009 | 5 | TRAPS (Familial Hibernian Fever) | Headaches | Fevers disappeared right way, joint pains completely disappeared in a few months and my energy returned in a big way. I still have occasional TRAPS episodes in times of stress, but they are mild and short-lived. Sure-click injections are terribly painful, even at room temperature, but results are worth the pain! | F | 59 | 8 months | 9/22/2009 | 2 | Psoriasis | I had no side effects. | I received no benefit from this medication; in fact by the time I stopped taking it and resumed my previous treatment, my skin was actually worse. | M | 45 | 4 months | 9/19/2009 | 1 | Suspicion of Psoriatic Arthritis | Painful burning, itchy rash at injection site. Headache and depression. No energy and feel like crap. | This has not caused any symptom relief. I feel worse than ever and just want to sleep. | M | 50 | 2 weeks | 9/18/2009 | 4 | PA | I have found that my respiratory infections have taken longer to clear up. Now when I feel like I am getting sick I will stop taking the Enbrel until I am completely better. | I have noticed that my weight has increased and that despite continual exercise I feel heavier than I usally am (usually thin). I wonder how this affects bloating -- something I have noticed that I experience more of. | M | 44 | 2 years | 9/7/2009 | 1 | psoriatic arthritis | I have recently been diagnosed with MS after taking Enbrel for about 2 years. After many MRI scans and doctors visits, it seems that it is very likely that Enbrel brought about the MS. I was once a believer that the benefits outweighed the risks, but that was before being diagnosed with an disease such as MS that may land me in a wheelchair. DO NOT take this drug. | F | 35 | 2 years | 9/7/2009 | 5 | RA | Not healing as fast from small cuts | I was on Remicade for one year and it almost killed me. On that drug I lost 50 pounds, tired all of the time and just did not care about anything. I was rated with the highest RA count you can almost have. With enbrel I am a new person. My weight is back to normal, I can work outside without constant pain. I also have a 7 year old daughter. I missed her early years of not being able to play with her due to the pain. With Enbrel I can do anything. Taking the 50 mg shot once a week is no problem. Never-ever had any pain in the stomach area or the legs. If you have RA please ask your Dr. about this drug. Make sure you have insurance and it is covered as it costs about $1,600 for four shots. | M | 53 | 4 years | 8/27/2009 | 5 | Psoriasis | Have had no side affects. | Have plaque psoriasis and when taking embrel twice a week for the first 3 months, it cleared my psoriasis. Have been taking Enbrel on and off for two years now and it works for me, but then my doctor has taken me off of it because he is concern of possible effect if taking a long period of time. | M | 48 | 2 years | 8/26/2009 | 1 | Psorisis | I have muscle loss in my thigh from the injections and noticible from across the room. The loss is 6" across my leg and 3+" down toward the knee so a huge area! Two weeks after stopping the drug my condition came back 300X worser than it was before I started using Enbrel. | This injection is so very painful. I have undergone every treatment there is for psorisis since 1977-1978 and my opinion this drug is the most dangerous of them all. I have other health issues caused from this drug that I am deaing with now and really scared... | F | 49 | 9 months | 8/20/2009 | 5 | psoriatic arthritis | Only a very occasional headache, nothing else | I have a mild form of this disease. About 15 years ago I was in to running. I had to stop because of neck pain that I was developing. I endured gradual and increasing neck pain for 10 years. When I started taking Enbrel about 4 years ago, my neck pain stopped within 48 hours of the 1st injection and has not returned! | M | 49 | 4 years | 8/19/2009 | 4 | RA | Constant colds, meaning I have to leave off injections until infection has passed (and get antibiotic or cortisone injections from GP, as body can't fight anything any more) | Scared about swine flu, given how Enbrel emasculates the immune system. Has anyone read any reports or recommendations in this context? - apart from this fear, I am just so grateful that - after five years of trying unsuccessful alternatives - my Spanish doctors here put me onto Enbrel - and although there is a general prescription charge for other drugs, this is FREE! | F | 58 | 4 years | 8/18/2009 | 5 | ra | Started taking Enbrel when it first came out in the early 90's and it was a Godsend! Before taking Enbrel I had very little energy and my fingers were starting to get deformed. I took everything that was available. After taking Enbrel I felt great immediately, less swelling & joint pain, more energy, and I do not have any disfiguration of fingers. Over the years I have developed female yeast infections and yeast in my digestive tract and mouth. I manage these by taking non-milk based acidophilas and staying away from yeast breads and eating very little bread & pasta prodcts. I also take arava along with the Enbrel and this controls my ra. I also take calcium & vitamin D as I am now of the age to get octeoarthritis. I was diagnosed when I was 12 with jra and am now 56 years and hold down a full time job and have lots of energy. I do like the 50mg autoinjector, very convenient. | I understand that Enbrel is not for everyone, but it has worked wonders for me. I understand the side effects, and I have minimal brusing/itching at injection site, I inject myself on thighs and back of arms. | F | 56 | 15 years | 8/16/2009 | 4 | AS | I have experienced no side effects to enbrel.Taking it now for a year.Occasional brusing around injection site which is not the drugs fault. | Prior to taking enbrel I couldnt even turn over in bed without severe pain.I was like an old man.My life has been transformed by enbrel and I am not exaggerating.Of course I am concerned about the long term effects but live for today and be happy. | M | 44 | 1 years | 8/14/2009 | 1 | RA | Much to worried about side affects to take embrel, so here in Australia I am going on a trial drug that is having great results.It doesnt hit your immune system around as much as embrel. So heres hoping. | F | 46 | 8/6/2009 | 1 | Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis | Did not have any immediate side affects when I took this. I am 17 now and I now have Leukemia. Enbrel has been highly linked to cancer in kids under 18. I am 17 years old and was diagnosed with APML on March 13th of this year. Do not take this drug for anything ever. | F | 17 | 2 years | 8/6/2009 | 3 | RA | Brusing at injection site. Stuffy nose and Headache. I use the 50mg sure click's. I also take 25mg of Benedryl 30 min.prior to injection just in case I have a reaction. Take your med. out of the refrigator 30 min. prior to injection. It is somewhat painful but only lasts a few seconds. | Still really scared about this medication because of the side effects however really scared about what the future holds with my RA. Dx. 3 years ago with RA. I have been on methotrexiate,folic acid and nexium since dx. I have tried other medications that either sent my liver enzymes sky high or made me so sick I could not function.I still try to work full time and stay as active as possible. I guess if you have doubts about this medication, you have to weigh the risks against the benefits. When you stay so fatigued that your first thought in the morning is just get thru 8 hours of work and you can go home and go back to bed then if Embrel makes it better its a benefit. If when you set down at home to watch a movie and then you try to get up and you are so stiff that you can hardly walk then it is a benefit to try Embrel. If you continually have tendonitis along with joint pain and stiffness then if Embrel works its a benefit. If you are also watching your fingers shift in the wrong direction or you have the edema,redness, and warmth in your joints then if Embel works its a benefit. I am sure you know the risks. I just want to prevent any further damage. I already feel somewhat better and have seen less stiffness with just 2 injections. | F | 54 | 2 weeks | 7/30/2009 | 3 | psoraisis/arthritis | cost is way to expensive,most people cant afford this, even with help from enbril card. I only was able to take for 3 months. then my ins. (bcbs) stopped helping me with it . I am not happy about that at all. | F | 48 | 3 months | 7/28/2009 | 4 | ra | I take my injection on Thursdays and occaisonally feel fatigued mostly 2 days after injection. Seveer pain during injection with bruising. It is much better if injected in the stomach instead of the leg. | It took about 3 months before I started to get relief but am much better than when first diagnosed in Dec. of 08. | M | 46 | 5 months | 7/26/2009 | 4 | RA | Pain at injection site but is managed by ice applied to area until very numb AND I find the prefilled syringes much better (less pain) than the auto-click pens. Those things are torture devices! I also experience a sore throat and hoarseness most of the time. Because I take both methotrexate and Enbrel on the same day, I feel nausea and ill for two days after injections. | After 3 months of use, I *did* feel better but the damage to my joints, especially my R knee, was progressing, so I opted to try Humira. HOWEVER, after one injection of Humira I had body aches so bad that I spent a week in bed! Needless to say, I went right back to Enbrel with a 'wait and see' for another 3 months- after all, Enbrel does help me to feel better so maybe the joint damage will lessen in the coming weeks. I'm hopeful! | F | 54 | 5 months | 7/22/2009 | 3 | 7/20/2009 | 1 | Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis | Bronchitis and Pnemounia. Constant low level of energy. Bad site reactions - severe bruising | On certain individuals Cancer and Lymphoma has occured... When I was brought into ER all the doctors shook there head in agreement that Enbrel caused me to lose the month of August with Pnemounia (3 diffrent antibiotics to treat) Thought I was going to die. That was all the risk - and the reward no clearing of the psoriasis only partial less swelling of athritis. Please take this medicine AT YOUR OWN RISK. | M | 39 | 5 months | 7/14/2009 | 5 | psoriatic arthritis | none | completely aleviated the crippling foot pain and made it possible to walk without limping. i got relief a few hours after taking it. quite a bit, although not all, of my psoriasis is gone as well. i've only been on it a couple months so i'm keeping my fingers crossed. i've also had dental work done without any infection problems. | F | 45 | 3 months | 7/12/2009 | 4 | Psoriasis | No side effects or I can't feel any side effects. | Clean up 90% of my psoriasis in 3 months. | M | 40 | 9 months | 7/11/2009 | 5 | RA/Psoriatic Arthritis | I have had weight gain & some itching around injection site. | This medicine is a god sent miracle. I have most of my life back now. I agree with many of you who write that the benefits out weigh the risks. I want quality of life...not quantity. The weight gain is the only thing I don't like. I am back to exercising in the water, walking outside, & gardening. It took about 3 months for some relief but I have severe RA/Psoriatic arthritis & was diagnosed about 4 yrs. ago. I am also on Methotrexate & Celebrex. Enbrel has really helped me a lot, I still have some very bad days but they are much fewer and my good days are so very good!! | F | 46 | 7 months | 7/10/2009 | 3 | RA | Exhaution | F | 48 | 1 months | 7/9/2009 | 3 | R A | My skin has got a lot dryer than before starting,also self injecting with Methatrexate, also taking steroids for very bad pain and stiffness, and have been injecting Enbrel for six week did't think it was helping and now this week it's like a lite switch going on less pain and stiffness- lets hope it continues | If offered a chance to try this drug, Try it nothing ventured nothing gained.My RA has been with me two years but my quality of life was decreasing. | F | 59 | 6 weeks | 7/6/2009 | 2 | RA | need to go on enbrel or humira which is better may need assistance to pay for | M | 43 | 0 days | 7/6/2009 | 5 | DERMATOMYOSITIS | STARTED HAVING MIGRAINE HEADACHE EVERYDAY. HOWEVER, CHILDREN MOTRIN TAKES CARE OF IT. TENDER SCALP IN A SMALL AREA ON TOP THE HEAD. | MY DAUGHTER STARTED TAKING A STRONGER DOSAGE 1.0 ONCE A WEEK AROUND APRIL OF 09. SHE WAS ONLY TAKING .05 TWICE A WEEK WHEN SHE FIRST STARTED IN 06. SHE WAS OFF THE DRUG IN 08.HOWEVER, I DID NOT ASSOCIATE THE HEADACHES WITH ENBREL BEACUSE AT FIRST SHE WAS TAKING IT INCONSISTENTLY. SHE STARTED TAKING IT REGULAR IN JUNE THEN WE NOTICE BAD HEADACHES/MIGRAINES OCCURING ONCE A DAY. BUT THE DRUG DID HELP HER SED RATE TO COME DOWN TREMENDOUSLY AND HELP WITH THE ARTHRITIS | F | 7 | 2 days | 7/2/2009 | 5 | Psoriasis | Only side effect is that I have heartburn very often now. Mostly when I drink alcohol | It has worked great so far. About 80 percent of my areas are cleared up now. | M | 31 | 4 months | 6/30/2009 | 1 | ra | Patches of hair loss, hives, scalp tenderness, skin sores leading to severe anxiety. I would strongly advise u really look at all side effects n seriously consider them. Also make sure u have a doctor who will respond quickly if u need to be seen, I ended up in the hospital and am still recovering from this medicines side effects | I will not recommend this after three months on this medicine I am in worse shape than ever! | F | 55 | 3 months | 6/30/2009 | 5 | Psoriatic arthritis | I took Enbrel for 2 years, but stopped 2 years ago when I got headache and nausea. I've had no side-effects since restarting it. | In recent months my arthritis got much worse, and I could barely walk and was exhausted all the time. I also broke out in gutte psoriasis for the first time. I decided to go back to Enbrel--twice a week injection. I found that my exhaustion began to lift just a few hours after the first injection, and by the next morning my joint pain was much improved. Within a few days almost all the pain was gone. I've been on it for 3 weeks now, and my pain is gone except for a twinge in one knee. I'm hoping the headaches and nausea do not return. The psoriasis still seems to be spreading a bit (red dots). But maybe it would be a lot worse if not for the Enbrel. I don't know since I have never had psoriasis until the last few months. | F | 54 | 3 weeks | 6/29/2009 | 4 | Psoriasis | Mostly I dont have severe side effects. I have minimal brusing at the injection site. I've noticed I'm more tired and so I sleep way more. I've gotten sick twice but gotten over it quickly. Though lately I've had re-occuring headaches. | It does work and I'm glad I went on it. I still wish i was on phototherapy and Accutane because it worked better for me except for my almost cancerous moles I developed from it. I'm worried about long-term effects, but how else can I stay remotely clear? | F | 16 | 8 months | 6/25/2009 | 5 | Psoriatic arthritis | Slight sore throat at times, headaches at first. Headaches have since subsided | I am writing for those who experience pain using the pre-filled syringe. (I had no pain with medicine we had to mix ourselves). But I also had pain with the premixed syringes. I called the company about it. The nurse recommended that I ice my injection site (in my case, my leg) for about 15 minutes before I inject, and that I take the medicine out of the fridge 30 minutes before I inject so that it's at room temperature by the time I do so. This made an enormous difference - there is still some pain associated with the injection, but not much. Enbrel has given me enormous relief from disabling joint pain and some relief from psoriasis. | F | 56 | 7 years | 6/24/2009 | 5 | psoriasic athritis | no side effects .A little pain once a week ...it really works | I use the enbrel for three years and my life changed from the third week | M | 41 | 3 years | 6/23/2009 | 3 | RA | Hive at injection site | I had been on Humira for 1 year, it wasn't working. Started Enbrel feel much better, but now have a very larg hive on my leg. It showed up 2 days after 2nd shot. | F | 33 | 11 days | 6/23/2009 | 5 | 6/16/2009 | 5 | RA | More infections such as sinus. Not much else. | This is a miracle drug in my book. The opportunity to do what others do, live a normal life. I have been on Enbrel since it came out. I was one of the first patients in GA to have access to the drug back when you had to register with the manufacturer to obtain the medication. My advancement was slowed so much it is unbelievable. When diagnosed in 1992 I was given 18 months to be in a wheel chair. I'm not, never have been. I have had several surgeries over the years and never have any issues healing. I would suggest this drug to anyone willing to go on living. It has made a difference in my life beyond any comprehension. | F | 51 | 10 years | 6/16/2009 | 1 | Psoriatic Arthritis | I was involved in a clinical trial at a major NYC hospital. After three months I experienced accute neurological numbness in both arms and my right thigh. A known side effect. | When I started the trial the doctor measured my coverage at 13% after three months it was 12%. Since stopping the drug because of the side effects they have gone away completely. My psoriasis however is now consumming 75% of my skin. A disaster. I would not call this a miracle drug for me. I have had PA since I was 27 (now 54) and have not changed my health habits before, during or after the trial, it has never been out of control like this. I would stay away at all costs. And I was getting it for free. Is there a class action suit brewing out there, if so I'm in. | M | 54 | 4 months | 6/12/2009 | 4 | Ankylosing Spondylitis | Sore throat! I'm constantly hoarse recently. Has anyone else experienced this? Kinda weird. | It is a wonder drug. I was taking Difene anti-inflammatorys and they were destroying my insides, but honestly, since i started Enbrel 18 months ago i am back playing team contact sports! Unreal. Although i still have my flare ups trust me! And i do have to take the odd anti inflamm, but it's worth it. 100%. | F | 30 | 18 months | 6/10/2009 | 4 | Ankylosing spondylitis | Injection site reactions severe red welt and burning for several days on 50 mg trigger injector. Switched to 50 mg prefilled and it made a world of difference!! It was causing spider veins in my legs so I always inject in the belly.( have notice most of the Weight gain in my stomach... 10-15 pounds in the year:( 4 upper respiratory infections this year, never had one in my life | Has definitely helped me.. less stiff in morning by 80%.Right now it is worth it because I could not walk a year ago. I have stomach issues and headaches that are frustrating but keep a close watch on symptoms and side effects with my rheumatologist. | M | 42 | 15 months | 5/30/2009 | 4 | rhuematoid artritis | I would have a runny nose most of the time,and tired every day | I find enbrel 50mg and metrotrexate have given me a good quality of life ive been taken enbrel now for 2 years. | F | 40 | 2 years | 5/28/2009 | 4 | Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis | I take it once every other week instead of once weekly. I haven't noticed any side effects. I am taking birth control and have noticed moderate mood changes, but I can't be sure this is from the birth control or from the enbrel. I am going to ask my doctor. | F | 29 | 2 years | 5/13/2009 | 4 | psoriasis | runny nose, cough, colds, tired. | M | 39 | 1 months | 5/13/2009 | 4 | RA | Decrease in appetite, rash on my arms | I have only taken 3 shots and I can not tell that big of a difference yet with my hands being drawn but am looking forward to the results. | F | 21 | 3 weeks | 5/11/2009 | 4 | RA | Painful injection | Like many people, I switched from a powder and diluent you had to mix yourself to a prefilled 50mg syringe. I find the prefilled injection very painful to administer, whereas the old method hardly hurt at all. I have been told that the pain is caused by a preservative in the mixture. I wish I could go back to the old method. I didn't mind having to mix it myself and it didn't take long. I can understand that the drug company were probable trying to make life easier, but if it's not broken..... don't fix it. | F | 27 | 4 years | 5/5/2009 | 5 | RA | No side effects | enbrel gave me my life back. Within days I could make a fist, joint swelling slowly disappeared, joint pain almost all gone, only a few flare ups in 3.5 years. I was able to get on with my life. | F | 56 | 3.5 years | 5/4/2009 | 3 | Psoriasis | I am having abnormal bruising on my thighs from me scratching. I have had strep throat once. My psoriasis broke out again after having strep throat and I have not had the results I did from the first 2 mths of treatments. | I do 50mg injections 2 x week. | F | 28 | 3 months | 5/3/2009 | 5 | RA | Injection site reaction; intense pain with 50 mg injection. | Switched to twice weekly 25 mg injections and no problems thereafter. A wonder drug for me. However, it lost effectiveness after about 4 years. | F | 39 | 4 years | 4/28/2009 | 3 | Rheumatoid arthritis | After 2 months on Enbrel I had no more pain. However, I had to stop taking it shortly after due to a perforated colon with abscess. Reading various articles seems to prove that this is not an uncommon side effect. My doctor wants me to start taking it again, but I have decided not to as I do not want to run the risk of another intestinal problem. | M | 66 | 2 months | 4/28/2009 | 3 | psoriases | Face developed a rash/glow, cant shift it since, been perscribed alsorts of creams but nothing effective yet. only got this since starting on enbrel 6 weeks ago | no real improvement in my p. its just got smoother, and the face rash is driving me mad. maybe i am expecting too much too quick, how long have others with p taken to notive any improvement?? did any1 else get face rash?? | M | 37 | 6 weeks | 4/26/2009 | 5 | psoriasis | weight gain, some irritabilityand lethargy, more blurred vision, slow healing, varicose veins seem to be developing | Has reduced psoriasis by 98%, but the drug is associated with blood disease, and my varicose veins have multiplied quite a bit since I started taking it. | M | 60 | 18 months | 4/22/2009 | 3 | Psorasis | Headache, Fatigue, slight weight gain, and just a general feeling of unwell one to two days after injection. Lately have noticed chest tightness and some pains. Am having more blookwork done to find out if there could be another cause for some of my symptoms. | I've been on enbrel twice now... first time for about seven to eight months and stopped taking because I couldn't stop getting sick and couldn't get over my illness, have been back on it again now for almost three months... I've noticed it hasn't cleared my skin as well as the first time, hope this is temporary. | F | 33 | 4/13/2009 | 5 | psoriasis | severe headache, itching and hive at injection site | I thought I'd be on creams and ointments the rest of my life. Enbrel is wonderful! All my psoriasis has disappeared except for a few small flare-ups mostly when I get stressed about something. My scalp is psoriasis-free! YIPEE! Now no worries about wearing a black shirt:) The headache has subsided nothing a motrin or tylenol can't handle. I'm even thinking if I lost some weight I could actually wear a bikini now. | M | 38 | 3 months | 4/11/2009 | 4 | Psoriasis | Abdominal bloat leading to weight gain and uncomfort, even though I eat right and exercise; using Sure-Click version: usually blood at every injection; slight pain during-little itch afterward. Seem a little lethargic, not sure if it is stress or the medicine. | This has been a miracle drug for me, the psoriasis covers about 75% percent of my body. Within one month, there was significant improvement. I have been taking the drug for two 1/2 months now, and my skin is amazingly clear. It has improved my self-confidence and esteem. As long as the side effects don't hurt more than the drug, I will keep taking it! | F | 42 | 75 days | 4/8/2009 | 5 | RA, PA | Injection site reactions; just gave myself my 3rd injection. Itchy, painful welts showed up 5 days after second injection; the next day on the third. Benadryl and Desonide cream seems to help. Other than that, none. | Been living with RA for ten years. This is the best drug so far. More energy, regulated sleep, no pain, which makes all the difference in my mood. I've taken just about everything out there. Now just taking Leflunomide and the Enbrel. Hope this lasts! | F | 36 | 3 weeks | 4/4/2009 | 4 | Rhuematiod & Osteo Arthritis | One 50mg pre-filled syringe of Enbrel weekly for RA. Very little pain when warmed up for at least 30 minutes, inserted into a fatty area (stomach seems better than thigh) at a 45 degree angle, and pushed in very slowly. If it's any where near a muscle the needle is in way too far; it only needs to be under the skin. No weight gain or loss and no other side effects noticed. I was only sick with a "flu" type virus for two days this year and no colds or chest issues. No RA flare-ups so it must be working !! Osteo join pain somewhat reduced. | I was off Enbrel and Methotrexate for a total of 6 weeks for full knee replacement surgery. I had no negative impact from being off of the drugs was healing well post surgery. I went back on both drugs on the advice of my Rheumatologist and now my healing seems to be going backward. Has anyone experienced this type of problem? | F | 57 | 7 days | 3/31/2009 | 1 | psoriasis | lymphoma, congestive heart failure | For me this was a miracle drug. And now it has changed my health and well being for life. | F | 47 | 5 years | 3/31/2009 | 4 | Psoriasis/Psoriatic Arthrits | Medicine painful as it enters body. It is less so the fattier the injection site, avoid muscle if you can. Skin started to clear very quickly by 95% My joints are much less stiff but still quite painful. I have gained weight. The most difficult side effects have been strange pains: this started in my abdomen immediately, like tiny shards of glass, first under ribs then also lower making using my stomach muscles too painful. I have been having shooting pains in my lower back recently and after 6/7 weeks on enbrel I have developed chest pain, which feels slightly muscular and constricting. I was very worried and mentioned it to the specialist this week, who was unconcerned. Because I have been quite concerned about it, I bought a personal blood pressure monitor and I am ok on that front. It would be really good to know more about this side effect, whether its short-term or if there is a way of treat it. One other thing... I have always had ear infections and later psoriasis in my ear ca | As uncomfortable as the side effects are, I am not giving up on enbrel. I worry it may be on me though as I am already seeing spots reappear. Someone earlier wrote that they did not realise quite how enormous the impact of their illness was on their life until they started treatment - I agree. I've been a shadow of myself for years - rarely pain free and unselfconscious at the same time in 20 years. Enbrel is like a weight off my shoulders giving me an opportunity to be hopeful and look forward. I am just crossing my fingers about the side effects and hoping for the best - I deserve it surely! | F | 33 | 8 weeks | 3/28/2009 | 5 | Psoriosis | Seem a little tired next day after injection. Weight gain over last several months, 10 pounds. Rather mild pain when wife injects me. | Had a parsi score of 25 just before starting enbrel, down to 3 in 8 weeks after starting, amazing. Previously on Raptiva for about 10 months, but gave up due to it ceasing to have any effect with my psoriosis gradually getting worse. About 2 months gap between ending Raptiva and starting enbrel and psoriosis flared up more, should have kept up the Raptiva a bit longer before switching to enbrel. | M | 56 | 4 months | 3/14/2009 | 4 | Recently determined have AS | Seem to be more tired, only been on for 8 months but also seem to catch flu and colds more often. | Seems pricing especilly because of the side effects and potential of harm that can be linked to the drug | M | 46 | 8 months | 3/14/2009 | 5 | rheumatoid arthritis | yeast infection in mouth - felt like pieces of skin growing inside my mouth - flaked off easily. Simple remedy was prescription tablets to suck on. rheumatologist thought it was due to imbalance of natural bacteria in mouth, probably due to enbrel. Am now experiencing burning in chest that's not responding to antacids. Family doc says dyspepsia and reflux can be side effects of enbrel, but rheumatologist never told me that. | Enbrel has been a miracle drug for me, gave me my life back. Side effects so far have been manageable and minor compared to RA. I take the 25 mg shot 2x a week, zero pain and I actually only take it about 1 a week which holds me most of the time. When it flares up a little I go back to 2x a week for a couple weeks. | F | 51 | 3 years | 3/13/2009 | 5 | PA, P, MCTD | Have slight red spot at injection site. No other side effects. | I could barely get out of bed before taking Enbrel. Prior to Enbrel, I was receiving weekly injections of Methotrexate and taking Prednisone with little results. Now taking Enbrel 25mg syringe every 5 days since 12/18/2008. Have very positive results within 24 hours. Enbrel has given me my life back. | F | 46 | 3 months | 3/13/2009 | 5 | for Rheumatoid Arthritis | RASH ON FACE...FIRST AT CHIN AREA...THEN SPREAD AFTER HAVING MY BABY TO FACE NEAR NOSE AREAS AND FOREHEAD..LOOKS LIKE ROSACEA AND ARE BUMPY WITH ITCH AND CLEAR LIQUID, CAUSES FLAKY SKIN AND REALLY DRY...ENBREL HELPS ME DO MY DAILY LIVING BUT I AM SCARED THE RASH WILL GET WORSE...NOW IT HAS SPREAD TO MY LEFT HAND ON TOP OF THE KNUCKLES...MY SINUSES ARE SEVERE NOW...I CAN'T EVEN BREATHE, HAVE TRIED ALL KINDS OF ANTIBIOTICS AND STILL THE SAME...I HAVE A COLD LIKE SYMPTOM WITH "OLD MAN" SOUNDING COUGH (SOUNDS GROSS BUT THIS IS WORSE), TOO MUCH MUCOUS DRAINAGE IN THE THROAT/NOSE AREAS...I BELIEVE ENBREL HAS CAUSED THIS... I WANT TO STOP IT AND DOCTORS SAID I SHOULD NOT... | I'M SCARED TO CONTINUE TREATMENT..ALSO SLOW HEALING WOUNDS AND SORENESS OF HEAD AREAS AND OVERALL SKIN SORENESS... | F | 31 | 5 years | 3/11/2009 | 4 | Ankylosing Spondylitis, Iritis | At the time of injection I would have to try really hard not to squirm because the injection was so painful. I discovered that it hurt less to inject it into the fattest part of my thigh. I've had more frequent sinus infections on Enbrel, but these were a problem before. Just now they are closer together. WIERD symptoms I've had are bruising and skipped menstrual cycle. | F | 25 | 3/10/2009 | 5 | Psoriasis | No side effects at all for the year I was on it. Slight weight gain...but I don't know if it was related. | My psoriasis cleared up completely...from Scalp, arms, legs, torso and about 50% on my nails. My dermatologist recommended I stop after 1 yr of twice weekly injections to see if it would stay clear. Well I have been off it for 4 months and my scalp is back to where it was...but the rest had yet to come back. Since I have stopped injecting the Enbrel I've had recurring veginal infections (and have never had any issues "down there" in my life). I'm sure its a side effect...but why would I get them now...only after stopping the medication? Anyone else have this problem? So now I wanna get back on it...but am weary of the damage it's done even after getting off the medication. | F | 26 | 1 years | 3/4/2009 | 5 | Ankylosing Spondylitis | Metalic taste in mouth after first injection, flu like symptoms for a day after 1st two injections-all tolerable & worth it for the pain relief. After 4th injection, severe bright red rash (about 3 inches by 4 inches at each prior injection site), swelling, heat & itching at all 4 injection sites, along with systemic itching over rest of body. Unfortunately, my rheumy made me stop the injections when this happened. | After already having had one hip replacement, I had high hopes this could stop the deterioration of my other hip, and of my spine. Unfortunately I had to discontinue it due to side effects. Doc plans on starting me on humira in a couple weeks, once the Enbrel clears out of my system. Low back pain (extreme!) & stiffness came back full force and them some 2 days after missing my last injection. | F | 51 | 2 weeks | 3/2/2009 | 4 | Caution:After on it 9 months. Dizzy,memory problems, feet tingling, shaky hands, blurred vision, weak muscles. Doctors denied Enbrel as reason; restarting prooved they were wrong. | On Enbrel for aboug 6 months when I noticed that 36 hrs later I was having Dizzy, blurred eyes problems. 3 months later I had major problems and was bed ridden; doctors at first thought Ms because of the Enbrel; Then decided no. So after I healed 3 months later I restarted it because they didn't believe it was the Enbrel. By the 5th injection my systems were coming back stronger. I have discontinued it. Advice: Listen to yourself; sometimes you just know. | F | 48 | 1 years | 2/26/2009 | 4 | Inflammatory Arthritis | Weight gain, depression, injection side pain | F | 42 | 2.5 years | 2/24/2009 | 5 | Psoriasis | (0) side effects from 50mg weekly injections. Been on this stuff for over 4 years and am 97% clear. No illnesses during that time, maybe a couple lethargic days that may or may not have been related to meds. 27 years of P and have tried it all. This really works for me. | M | 53 | 4 years | 2/19/2009 | 5 | PA | I have gotten a slight urinary tract infection.Headaches sometimes.On my second month of Enbrel for the first time,Im feeling a lot more side effects than I ever have.Sureclick pen hurts a little more than pre-filled injection but I feel its better because you dont have to monitor the flow. | My second week of Enbrel(I do on wed.and sun.)I saw a dramatic difference in my skin.My arms were almost cleared.For the first time in 30 yrs.I can wear shorts in public with no one staring.I feel the benefits outweigh the side effects.Its made a difference in my life.I'm so happy the public is becoming more aware of psorisis so we are not treated as aliens.I know everyone has felt at one point or time like we were the only ones with this disorder.Now we have others we can look to and help with support.I Thank Everyone~ | F | 49 | 5 weeks | 2/19/2009 | 5 | RA | injection site hive - take benadryl at night and Tagamet during the day | What a lifesaver. It started working within a week and my rheum says she would never know I had RA now. I was/am fearful of the lymphoma issue. However my 27 yr old sis is fighting Hodgkins and she's never taken a biologic and has no risk factors other than our sketchy DNA. I really believe it's the disease that causes cancer and not the drugs. I even stayed on Enbrel while pregnant and my son is 7 months and ahead of all his developmental milestones. Thank you to Amgen Wyeth for giving me my life back! | F | 37 | 2 years | 2/10/2009 | 5 | RA | I am in my early thirties and have been on Enbrel for two years and within a couple of weeks it completely resolved my RA and gave me my life back . I went off it for a year and a half to have a baby. Three months after I went back on it, I developed severe headaches and nausea for a couple of days, assumed it was migraine. Got progressively worse and developed a small rash on tummy-in short I had developed shingles which had progressed to Viral Meningitis. After hospitalisation for a month with anti viral treatment , I was fine again. I was reluctant to go back on the medication but had no choice due to deterioration of RA-. Despite the severity of the side effect- I am happily back on Enbrel-meningitis is curable, joint damage and deformity is not- I am taking my chances... | F | 34 | 3 years | 2/5/2009 | 5 | psoriatic arthritis | Absolutely none. The 50 mg. injection can be slightly painful, but I learned that this can be lessened significantly by letting the syringe warm up a bit after taking it out of the fridge. I wait 15 minutes and then inject. Also, the best place to inject is around the naval. Enough fat there to absorb the needle easily without hitting any blood vessels! | This is a miracle drug. I have been on Enbrel for almost ten years, and let me tell you, it gave me back my life. I am no longer in constant pain, the bone in by finger joints has regrown and my fingers do not appear as misshapen, and I no longer need to take Celebrex or any other NSAID. The scientists at Immunex who developed this drug should be given the Noble Prize. Think about it. Kids who were in wheelchairs are now playing football. An absolute miracle drug. | M | 52 | 9.5 years | 2/4/2009 | 4 | RA | been on Enbrel 2 months. Have constant headache, sinus problems big time, slight weight gain. Shot IS painful. Auto inject more so. but syringe under arm to warm up med for a few minutes really helps.(a hint from my nurse) | This medication really helps. My RA was progressing quickly and I was really getting worried. It's not a miracle drug, but HAS improved my life. Not sure how long term I want to use Enbrel because of other possible side-effects, but for now, it works for me. | F | 57 | 2 months | 2/4/2009 | 2 | Ankylosing Spondylitis | Severe head aches & pains - very tender areas on head. Weight gain. Enhanced pain in legs and feet making walking much more difficult | Not the wonder drug for me, I think having had AS for 30 plus years my skeleton is too badly damaged to benefit from this drug | M | 57 | 3 months | 1/26/2009 | 4 | RA | After being on this drug for about a month, I developed shingles on my scalp--very painful and disruptive to my life for awhile. My doctor warned me that this may happen. | This drug has made an incredible difference in my quality of life. I had very little range of motion in my joints and a great deal of pain, to the point where I was barely able to dress myself. For now--the side effects are worth having my life and mobility back. Do I enjoy the sure-click injection? No. Am I concerned about my immune system response? You bet. Am I going to continue taking this drug, barring any major complications? Definitely. | F | 53 | 2 months | 1/24/2009 | 4 | PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS/PSORIASIS | A FEW HEADACHE, SORE AND SOME ITCHING ON THE INJECTION SITE. HAVE A COLD, BUT SURE IF ASSOCIATED WITH THE DRUG. | I READ SOME REVIEWS, I HAVE JUST BEEN ON ENBREL FOR A MONTH. I FOUND SOME OF THE SIDE EFFECTS COULD BE FROM THE DRUG. BUT SO FAR I AM VERY PLEASED. I HAVE HAD NO PAIN SINCE I STARTED THE TREATMENT(WHICH WAS FEET, KNEES, WRIST AND HANDS). THE ONLY THING THAT DOES WORRY ME IS THE MAJOR SIDE AFFECTS. | F | 48 | 1 months | 1/22/2009 | 2 | Seronegative RA | Its my 3rd shot today, for the last 2 weeks I experienced almost constant headaches and flu-like symptoms for 2-3 days after taking the shot. Didn't want to take it today, but need to see if I improve. My blood results ESR and CRP are much improved, but I dont feel any better. My rheumatologist is seeing me in 2 weeks, but I think I felt better on a conbination of methotrexate and leflunamide - however had mad raised BP with the leflunamide. I'm still on methotrexate, and that was a total life saver for me. | Still waiting for my miracle. Can't imagine continuing to effectively lose 2-3 days per week. Worried that I'm getting pain down my neck & spine also - I've never had pain there before. | F | 45 | 21 days | 1/13/2009 | 1 | Psoriasis/ankolising spondilitis | My brother-in-law was on Enbril injections for a year without check ups. He developed lung cancer. After partial lung removal, he thought he was clear, but three months later it was found to have spread to his spine. The cancer is now terminal and he is now receiving palliative care. It's so shocking as we don'y know how long he's got left to live. So, even though Enbrel helped his original condition, we never thought it could kill him in the end. Please, everyone, be aware of side effects of taking any drug. | F | 55 | 365 days | 1/11/2009 | 4 | Sero-neg. RA and arthrosis | Not sure if from Enbrel, but: increased fatigue, blurred vision, digestive problems, bloated abdomen, weight gain despite no change in diet. 50 once week, find it hard to administer and feel dizzy afterwards (cancel any Thursday appointments on principle now)but no rash at inj site. Scared as have had TB in the past; now almost constantly suffering from cold infections but doc said keep shooting as long as no high temperature | Took a while to notice any difference (but final diagnosis had also taken around 3 years, so fairly advanced by then) but it seems to have solved the RA almost completely; arthrosis remains, hands semi-crippled. Taken with MTX and NSAIDs. Has changed my life, but aware that the price for that may be high in terms of serious infections | F | 58 | 3 years | 1/6/2009 | 4 | RA & OsteoA | I take one 50mg dose of Enbrel weekly for RA. I started out with the pre-filled syringe and then was changed to the auto-injector due to a prescription snafu. While the syringe requires a little more care when using, it is a wonder compared to the extremely painful Sure-Click. If you let the syringe warm up for about 1/2 hour and inject it slowly, there is no pain. If you are squeamish about using the syringe, you may want to have your doctor help you the first time. It's actually quite easy. | While I think the potential side effects of this drug are very scary, it's vastly improved the quality of my life. I've been off of the Enbrel for about two weeks now as I was to go for knee replacement surgery today. Unfortunately, I've picked up some type of "flu" and I have to wait another week for surgery. | F | 56 | 10 months | 1/5/2009 | 3 | Psoriasis, Sapho Syndrome | Possibly edema and increased psoriatic breakouts | Took 50 mg Enbrel for 6 weeks every seven days. After extremely high SED rate came within normal range, was advised to take every ten days which I've been doing for two months. I seem to be getting more psoriasis flare-ups and little red bumps all over my body more frequently. Does anyone else feel that the Enbrel makes their psoriasis worse? | F | 68 | 4 months | 1/3/2009 | 5 | psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis | Slight headache for the first couple weeks, but no side effects since. I do experience a slight flu like weakness pain all over which is controlled with pain meds. I dont know if this is from the drug or the arthritis itself. | A miracle drug for me. Virually took away 95% of psoriasis. Could hardly walk on sore ankles at times before taking drug. I can lead a somewhat normal lifestyle now. | M | 54 | 2 years | 1/1/2009 | 4 | Plaque psorasis | Have been taking enbrel for nearly 3 years, find it has kept posoriasis at bay. Have just started getting large sores on one leg very weepy and sore hope it is not the start of ulcerated leg. Anyone else experienced this? | F | 51 | 3 years | 12/28/2008 | 3 | Psoriatic arthritis/psoriasis | Tired constantly, lethargic, weight gain (a lot) no energy, constant yeast infections. | I never realized that I was having any side effects from Enbrel other than being tired. I had to have foot surgery and my surgeon made me stop the drug, I began to diet and exercise to help with the PA symptons as there was no way to stay on pain killers to help with the pain from the PA. I have never felt better, being off this drug has allowed me to control my PA in a more healthy way. I also feel that it was causing fungal infections within my body, this causes so many other problems. And I do believe this caused my weight gain, 40lbs over the 2 1/2 years I was on the drug. I was finally able to loose weight when I quit taking Enbrel, that never happened before. Yes, in the beginning is was great...but to what sacrifice!! Trust in your body, I suggest looking up and staying with anti-inflammatory foods, the right foods can help you control arthritis!!! And you would be surprised what foods can help or hurt your body.....get off the drugs, be healthy from the inside. | F | 44 | 2 years | 12/27/2008 | 5 | Sero-negative RA (w/ Sjogrens) | Sometimes a "bubble" of Enbrel is visible raising the skin on my thigh - an area the size of a quarter. Sometimes a few days later an area about double in size turns pink and itchy. Lately I have had more itchy and dry patches on my skin and have begun to wonder if Enbrel is influencing this. | I felt improvements in my energy only hours after taking my first Enbrel injection! It has given me my life back. Remicade worked in the past and put the RA in remission for 5 years. The RA came back a year after the birth of my first child (who is almost 2 now). I have the RA under control now and I am able to space out injections to at least 4 weeks with no return of symptoms. I hope some day to go off Enbrel altogether. Meditate your healing from within. Thank heaven for medicine. My best to you. | F | 32 | 6 months | 12/22/2008 | 1 | my husband | My husband had no side effects for about 10 months and was in a perfectly healthy condition prior to taking this dreadful drug Enbrel. He was taking it for psoriasis, which cleared up beautifully. After 10 months he started to develop back pain and went from doctor to doctor and was subsequently diagnosed with Diffuse B-Cell Lymphoma.It has been an absolute nightmare ever since. I really feel that for some people this is a highly dangerous drug....so, please, please be careful!! | F | 60 | 10 months | 12/21/2008 | 5 | RA-Myositis | extreme burning at injection site. I use the 50mg prefilled syringes. As others have said, let it warm to room tempreture. I liked when they had the powder-mix before. No burning with that, and I am not bothered by needles. Injecting in your stomach can help also, as others have said. | This drug has been a lifesaver for me! I have been on it over 8 years for RA and Myositis (an autoimmune muscle disease) I take this and methotrexate and it has put be in remission with very few flares. Before I was in a wheelchair, a month after starting enbrel I was walking again on my own. I do notice if I miss and injection, I get a flare! I have never had an infection in all the years I have been on it. | F | 44 | 8 years | 12/20/2008 | 2 | Rheumatoid arthritis, spondylitis | Extremely heavy legs,unable to walk. And it is supposed to give you energy? It did the opposite to me! | It made me feel totally helpless. I was able to do nothing while on it. And it did not help at all. | F | 36 | 2 months | 12/20/2008 | 5 | RA | It's like my immune system becomes a screen door with every little bug or virus flying right in. | I have not been able to stay on Enbrel for a sustained amount of time because you have to go off it when you get an infection and I am ALWAYS getting infections. And if you end up with the flu, it's like a truck ran over you. | F | 43 | 3 years | 12/15/2008 | 4 | Pa/Psoriasis | This is the 3rd time I have been on Enbrel. B/c of worries of long-term effects, I only take it when I cannot function. The first time (3 years) - no side effects. 2nd time(1 year)- no side effects. 3rd time (2 weeks)- migraine-like headaches uncontrolled by tylenol and possible tightness in chest. | First time Enbrel was a life-saver. I could not dress myself or care for my child - I was extremely depressed. I did go to work(to cover med expenses) - within weeks, I was fully functional. 2nd time was for psoriasis 75% covered. Cleared in a year. This time is for pa again. immediate relief from joint pain - full functionality, psoriasis is diminishing. | F | 40 | 2 weeks | 12/7/2008 | 4 | RA | I am frequently bothered with sinus pain, followed by nausea & throwing up..I can expect to loose a couple days when this happens.I see others have problems also.. any solutions?? | Enbrel has been life changing for me. I see in other comments that you didn't inject Enbrel until the sinus issue passed.Was this by order of your Dr.or did you find that it helped on your own? Over all it has been great,just wish I could get past the sinus thing! | F | 63 | 4 years | 12/6/2008 | 4 | Psoriasis | Quite a bit of fatigue, slight pain at injection site but not nearly as bad as pre-filled syringes, swelling and itching around injection site, stomach issues, headaches | Overall the side effects are not too severe. I take 50mg auto-injector twice a week for 4 months and definitely feel is worth all the effects. My psoriasis is about 80-85% cured! :) | F | 18 | 4 months | 11/27/2008 |
| Key to
ratings: 5-Very Satisfied: this medicine cured me or helped me a great deal. 4-Satisfied: this medicine helped. 3-Somewhat Satisfied: this medicine helped somewhat. 2-Not Satisfied: this medicine did not work to my satisfaction. 1-Dissatisfied: I would not recommend taking this medicine. |
