Common Side Effects
Injection site reactions are the most common side effects of Enbrel. The reaction can involve redness, swelling, itching, bruising, pain, and/or bleeding. For most people, these reactions are so mild there is no need to stop taking this medication. In fact, for many people, this reaction will stop occurring after the first few injections.
Other common side effects include:
HeadacheNauseaVomitingHeartburnDiarrheaMild respiratory infectionsRunny noseChange in tasteRashItchy skinLow-grade fever (between 100 and 102 °F)
If you are experiencing any of these side effects and do not improve or find them bothersome, talk to your healthcare provider.
Serious Side Effects
Enbrel can cause serious side effects. You can be more predisposed to infections when taking Enbrel. Contact your healthcare provider if you have signs of infection, such as a sore throat, cough, high fever, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.
Some of the more serious side effects are:
CoughSore throatChillsHigh fever (above 102 °F)DepressionFast or irregular heartbeatFrequent or painful urinationUnusually stiff joints or musclesStomach painBlurred visionDouble visionConfusionDifficulty breathingExtreme fatigueSwelling in legs, ankles, or feet
While any side effects are concerning, the following side effects may be life-threatening, and urgent medical care is advised:
Chest tightnessFast or irregular heartbeatSudden vision changeSwelling of your face, throat, and eyesDifficulty breathingSeizures
Go to the nearest emergency center or call 911 if you experience any of the above side effects.
Enbrel is associated with an increased risk of certain inflammatory conditions, including interstitial lung disease and multiple sclerosis. This medication is also associated with an increased risk of lymphoma, leukemia, skin cancer, and other types of cancers.
If there is a concern about a possible overdose, call the Poison Control Helpline at 1-800-222-1222.
Warnings
Black Box Warning
This drug comes with a black box warning about the risk of tuberculosis (TB), which is the most serious warning designated by the FDA. Enbrel may reactivate a previous TB infection or make it easier to contract TB.
Interactions
Enbrel can interact with vitamins, supplements, other medicine and can cause problems if you have certain underlying conditions. To avoid interactions, be sure to tell your healthcare provider and your pharmacist about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you take.
The interactions listed below are the most common.
Previous History of TB
Since Enbrel can reactivate an otherwise dormant TB infection, you should tell your healthcare provider if you were exposed or have had a TB infection in the past.
Active Infection
If you have an active infection, Enbrel may increase your risk of developing a more severe illness. Talk with your healthcare provider about how to handle your weekly dose if you develop an infection.
Immunizations
Ideally, you will have completed your vaccine series before starting Enbrel. However, if you have not, you should know it’s important to avoid live vaccines. Common live vaccines include the chickenpox vaccine and the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
According to the manufacturer, this medication should be used with caution if you have CHF— it can increase the risk of CHF, worsen CHF, and may increase the risk of death in people who have CHF.
Nursing Mothers
There is no definitive study regarding Enbrel passing through breast milk, and you and your healthcare provider should discuss the pros and cons of taking this medication if you are breastfeeding.
A Word From Verywell
Talk to your healthcare provider about any side effects you may be experiencing. If your side effects are bothersome or intolerable, your practitioner might prescribe a different medication for you.
At Verywell, our goal is to provide you with accurate and relevant information. However, there is no guarantee all complications and interactions are listed. Always take time to speak with your healthcare provider about possible interactions or concerns about taking any medication.
