Etanercept can make it harder for you to fight infections. People with active infections should not take etanercept. If you have a fever, think you have an infection, or have been prescribed an antibiotic contact your healthcare provider. People who have had frequent infections in the past or a history of tuberculosis should discuss the use of etanercept with their healthcare provider.
Also contact your healthcare provider if you are having surgery as you may need to stop etanercept until you are healed and there is no sign of infection.
Etanercept has not been studied in pregnant people or lactating parents so its effect(s) on pregnant people or nursing babies are unknown. You should tell your doctor if you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant. Because of the potential for adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made with your healthcare provider whether or not to discontinue nursing or the medication, taking into account the importance of the drug to the lactating parent.
Anyone who has had a previous allergic reaction to etanercept should avoid the medication.
Anyone with a history of cancer or nervous system problems (like multiple sclerosis) should discuss the use of etanercept with their healthcare provider.
Etanercept may make a condition called congestive heart failure worse. Tell your doctor if you have congestive heart failure.
Before starting this medication, you will likely be tested for inactive (“latent”) tuberculosis (TB) and hepatitis B because etanercept can dampen the immune system and cause these infections to become active. If TB or hepatitis is found, it will need to be treated before you start etanercept.
Make sure that your vaccinations are up to date before starting etanercept. Your healthcare provider will likely recommend a number of vaccines (e.g., influenzae, pneumonia, RSV, shingles) to get beforehand. Because etanercept can reduce your ability to react to vaccines, you should wait at least two to three weeks after your vaccine before starting etanercept. If you are already on etanercept and need a vaccination, try to space it as long as you can after your last dose. Live vaccines are not recommended due to risk of causing infection. Before receiving any vaccinations while taking etanercept, you should speak with your healthcare provider.