Transition to Benepali, update.

[Mall]

Some weeks ago there was a post expressing concern about being asked to move from the original etanercept, Enbrel, to the bio similar, Benepali. If not already most enbrel users will be asked to change to Benepali because the cost implications for the NHS. At that time I had just begun Benepali injections after having Enbrel for some 5 or so years and promised to update on any differences that I may have noticed.

I have now taken Benepali for 6 weeks. I inject into my stomach and don't bother to use the alcohol wipe on my skin before hand. I always found if I used this the jag stung more. I am happy to report that in my case I have not noticed any deterioration in my RA symptoms and that I have not had any adverse reactions around the site where I inject. Additionally I find the Benapali easier to inject, as you just require pressure and don't have to press the awkward plunger as found on the the Enbrel injection. This has been a bonus for me due to affected joints in my hands.

Hopefully this may alleviate some of the anxieties folk were having about being asked to change from one manufacturer to another now that etanercept has come off license.

Mall.

[Jewels94]

Thanks for that. I have recently been informed that I am about to switch so appreciate your comments

[keeta]

I haven.t injected in my stomach yet. Just in leg used tbe wipe firzt a d it stung. I.m reluctant to do the stomach quite a baby. But now i.ll try. Kathy xx

[Mall in reply to keeta]

Keeta, I find injecting in stomach the least painful and less likely to bruise.

[keeta in reply to Mall]

Thanks i.m just being a baby xx

[Gnarli]

I'm not on any biologic so haven't personal experience. I just wanted to thank you very much for posting such a positive report. It's always good to hear someone is doing well. Hugs

Jan

[Mall in reply to Gnarli]

I inject Methotrexate into my legs, alternating leg each week and Benepali into my tum alternating each side weekly. Maybe I have a more flabbily tummy so maybe that helps with reducing the sting. Hehe.

[Jackadoodle]

I must be a wimp because I find it quite painful to inject into my stomach, I have Benepali injection in left leg on Mondays and Methotexrate injection in right leg on Fridays.