help

[loppyloo12]

does anyone know about tnf drugs ive just been told the name of my drug anyone on it and does It help its called etanercept after a really bad appointment and argument with the nurses I'm debateing about going on it now

[helixhelix]

Here's the link to the NRAS page on it

nras.org.uk/anti-tnfa-treat...

It's also called Enbrel, and if you search using the box top right of your screen you'll get lots of posts about it - all usually very positive!

These drugs cost the NHS about £10,000 a year each person, so they don't give them unless they think you really need them.

What's worrying you about it? And sorry to hear you had a bad appointment.

[Barrister]

I was on Enbrel and recently been changed to Benepali. Enbrel worked well for me. It’s still early days with the Benepali.

Clemmie

[Birthdaygirl]

I have been on Etanercept/Enbrel since 2014. It has been the only drug that has controlled my RD. I give thanks for every week I inject. It has given me mobility.

The hospital gave me a detailed information pack when It was confirmed that I qualified for etanercept. Did they give you an information pack?

You have been given a very helpful link to more information from NRAS and you can always phone or email the NRAS helpline as well to discuss your worries and get more info.

Wish you well with your decision making.

BG

[farm123]

My first biological drug was Enbrel back in 2003 and it worked for 7 years. I have had less side effects with the biological group of drugs than the DMARD group. Farm

[Mandalou]

Most people would snatch the hand that offered Etanercept.

whar Im saying is and please don't take this the wrong way...... Don't cut off your nose to spite your face.

Ive had a couple of difficult appointments with the Rheumy nurses so I know its not easy.

Etanercept is the active ingredient in the Biologic anti TNF medicine Enbrel or the Bio similar Benepali. These are all terms that you can research on the links given by previous posters.

Ive been on both for two years now and I have a 90% normal life.

Off to the Hospital this morning as it goes.

Good luck and think very very hard before you say no to Biologics.

Mx

[loppyloo12 in reply to Mandalou]

Thank you so much xx

[loppyloo12]

I'm scared as read the side affects

[helixhelix in reply to loppyloo12]

Yes reading the patient information is scary. But they have to tell you about all possible side effects. I've put in the link for the same information about aspirin....look at section 4!!! And we don't think twice about taking aspirin....

medicines.org.uk/emc/files/...

[Mandalou]

Yep, it does make scary reading but imagine the horrendous result of untreated inflammatory disease.

Life is a risk and doing nothing is the biggest risk of all.

I have 8 weekly blood tests at my GP's to make sure everything is on track.

I can drink alcohol and have no joint erosion despite being totally incapacitated at onset.

Its a daunting prospect but be your own best friend and become an expert in your own condition.

All the best.

Mx

[premierscfc]

I was on Etanercept for 9 years before it stopped workingand like you I was very worried about the side effects on paper. It controlled my disease activity really well and it's the best I've felt since the RA started.