What are the risks of respiratory infections with Enbrel?
Enbrel, a medication used to treat various autoimmune disorders, can increase the risk of respiratory infections, including pneumonia, in certain patients.
Why are patients with autoimmune disorders at risk?
People with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, or Crohn's disease, are already more susceptible to infections due to their compromised immune systems. Enbrel, a TNF-alpha inhibitor, further suppresses the immune response, potentially leading to a higher incidence of respiratory infections.
Who is at highest risk of respiratory infections with Enbrel?
The risk of respiratory infections with Enbrel is higher in patients who:
* Have a history of recurrent infections [1]
* Are older than 65 years
* Have a pre-existing lung disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) [2]
* Are co-infected with HIV/AIDS or other conditions that weaken the immune system
How common are respiratory infections with Enbrel?
According to clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance, the incidence of pneumonia in patients taking Enbrel is around 1-3% per year [3]. While this may seem low, the risk is still higher than that of the general population.
What are the symptoms of Enbrel-related respiratory infections?
Symptoms of respiratory infections in Enbrel patients can include:
* Coughing
* Shortness of breath
* Chest pain
* High fever
* Chills
What should patients do to minimize the risk of respiratory infections with Enbrel?
To reduce the risk of respiratory infections, patients taking Enbrel should:
* Get regular flu and pneumococcal vaccinations [4]
* Avoid close contact with individuals who have respiratory infections
* Wash their hands frequently
* Practice good hygiene
* Report any symptoms of respiratory infections to their healthcare provider promptly
Are there any biosimilars or generics available for Enbrel?
Yes, there are biosimilars and generics available for Enbrel, which may offer a similar treatment option with potentially lower costs. However, patients should consult their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for their specific needs.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17164349
[3] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/021006s034lbl.pdf
[4] https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/index.htm
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