Etanercept

Active tuberculosis should be treated with standard treatment for at least 2 months before starting etanercept.

About : Always check the BNF link here

• Anti TNF-alpha agent by binding to the soluble TNF receptor
• Assuming 52 doses per year, the annual cost of etanercept is £9295.
• Specialist use only

Aetiology

• Comprises two soluble TNF-alpha molecules held together by human IgG1
• Does not bind TNF-beta receptor or membrane-bound receptors

Concerns

• Risk of infection especially TB

Indications/Dose

• Severe Rheumatoid arthritis
• Moderate-to-severe Plaque psoriasis
• Severe Ankylosing spondylitis
• Active and progressive psoriatic arthritis

Dose range:You must check with BNF or drug datasheet

Contraindications

• Etanercept is contraindicated in people with sepsis or who are at risk of sepsis, and people with active infections including chronic or localised infections

Side effects

• Injection site pain, Blood disorders, severe infections
• CNS demyelination, GI upset

References

• Summary Product Characteristics
• Adalimumab, etanercept, infliximab, certolizumab pegol, golimumab, tocilizumab and abatacept for rheumatoid arthritis not previously treated with DMARDs or after conventional DMARDs only have failed Technology appraisal guidance [TA375] Published date: 26 January 2016