Enbrel vs Humira
 | Enbrel |  | Humira |  |
| his medication is used alone or in combination with an immunosuppressant (such as methotrexate) to treat certain types of arthritis (such as rheumatoid, psoriatic, juvenile idiopathic, and ankylosing spondylitis), as well as a skin condition called psoriasis. These conditions are caused by an overactive immune system (autoimmune disease). The immune system attacks the body's own healthy cells, causing inflammation in the joints and skin. Etanercept controls your body's defensive response by blocking the action of a certain natural substance (TNF) that is used by the immune system. Treatment decreases redness, itching and scaly patches in psoriasis as well as the pain, swelling and stiffness of joints in arthritis. This medication can stop the progression of disease and joint damage, resulting in improved daily functioning and quality of life. This medication treats but does not cure autoimmune diseases. Symptoms usually return within 1 month of stopping the medication. | This medication is used to reduce pain and swelling due to certain types of arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid, psoriatic, and ankylosing spondylitis). This medication is also used to treat psoriasis (plaque-type). It works by blocking a protein (tumor necrosis factor or TNF) found in the body's immune system that causes joint swelling and damage. Early treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with more aggressive therapy, including this type of medication (TNF blockers), helps to reduce further joint damage and preserve joint function. This medication is also used to treat certain bowel conditions (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis). It is used in cases that are moderate to severe and/or keep coming back. | |||
Alternatives
Reviews
| Add Enbrel review I had been taking enbrel for around 4 years. on mother's day 2013, got sepsis from enbrel. doctors gave me 12 hours to either die or get better. i was in icu for 4 days and don't remember the first 2 days. enbrel should not be on the market! do NOT take!!! Developed AS in my 20's and have taken many treatments from a variety of drugs. Started taking Enbrel when it was introduced after using Remicade and Methotrexate. The difference has been wonderful. Some side effects, dry eyes, declining vision etc. Balance is improved 95%, little or no pain except when I over exert working in the yard. Occasional use of Predisone when things flare up. I take 2x injections per week and agree the cost is killing me in increased insurance premiums. Mckesson rebates are extremely helpful with the deductible ($4000 per year on my plan) but then the insurance covers it for the rest of the year. Can hardly wait til Medicare 14 months out and hope that it is covered. | Add Humira review I took humira following six months treatment with methotrexate and plaquenil. I found myself sitting in the recliner unable to move. I have never suffered from headaches but I found myself nursing a 24 hour headache for an entire two weeks. I also never actually slept because I couldn't stop peeing. My kidneys were in overdrive. Yes my body didn't hurt as much, but what this drug did to my kidneys, brain, and mental state leaves something to be desired. I am afraid of the long term effects of this medication. Shortly after taking Humira, histoplasmosis raged through her body, leading to sepsis and she ended up on life support. While the makers of Humira ask doctors to test their patients for tuberculosis, they do not test for histoplasmosis. This lack of proactive testing for histoplasmosis needs to be corrected. She has had two brain bleeds and strokes since the sepsis. While the TV ads talk about 'discussing with your doctor if you've been to an area of the world where certain fungal diseases may be present....'I believe it's not sufficient. My daughter grew up in the Minnesota River Vallel in SC Minnesota. Hardly what comes to mind when the doctor asks you about travel to "fungal areas." My daughter's life will never be the same. | |||
