Embrel or Benepali

[JayneR]

I’ve been told that I’m moving from Embrel to Benepali, I’ve been told they are the same but is cheaper for the NHS.

Is anyone else done this and is there any difference in your opinion ?

[Jewels94]

Hi, I switched from Enbrel to Benepali in September. I think a few others on here have switched as well. A couple of others have reported problems and have asked to be switched back. I can’t say I’ve noticed a difference myself but my switch happened after having to go off meds for a while due to surgery. I have noticed with my last two injections that I had a problem with not all liquid going in, but I’m not sure yet wether that was just bad luck.

[Lincolnimp2457 in reply to Jewels94]

hi, I have never heard of these, I have been diagnosed for approximately 2 years and I have been on Methotrexate, folic acid, amitriptyline, cocodamol and ibuprofen. but my meds aren't helping and I see the specialist again on the 23rd Feb 2018 when I hope to have my meds changed as I am in agony everyday, but would you keep in touch so I can see how you are doing please?

[fred42 in reply to Jewels94]

Do you count slowly to 20 after the second click - assuming you have the pens like I do. Just once I rushed and had a bit left on the skin.

Working well for me after 3 months.

[RA2002 in reply to fred42]

I find it easier to use than the Enbrel open needle syringe but for some reason it stings more than Methotrexate (which I also take sub-subcutaneously), it always has been slightly more painful to administer.

[JayneR in reply to fred42]

I can’t use epi-pens as the arthritis in my hands mean I can’t grip and press the button, I’ve learned to use the pre-filled needles..I pinch a roll of flesh around my stomach inject and then count to ten after taking the needle out, so very little discomfort, just a red mark left ...

[RA2002]

My hospital changed my meds four weeks ago. Enbrel manufacturer has massively increased the price of this drug so it was becoming too expensive for my health authority. My consultant fully explained all the reasons and impressed upon me the need to let them know if I experienced anything serious as a result of the switch. Benepali is a Biosimilar and much cheaper so I understand the decision. Since changing I have noticed more headaches and fatigue but generally nothing has altered dramatically yet.

[JayneR]

Thanks I inject on Friday nights so go to bed about an hour later, I find that way I don’t get too many side effects; sickness subsides by the morning

[Mandalou]

Hi there

I was switched over a year ago from Enbrel to Benepali.

Absolutely zero side effects and my remission certainly as far as really low Inflammatory markers is concerned continued with no issue. I still suffer stiffness after any any sort of inactivity ( long drive in the car, sitting down after shopping, first thing in the morning etc etc)

My blood counts are very low as expected while on this drug, I have them taken every eight weeks. My liver is all perky and tolerates Benepali perfectly where it certainly couldn't handle Mthx or Leflunomide. Kidneys all good too.

I also still suffer pain but nothing near the horror of the period leading up to diagnosis and before the drugs kicked in.

Benepali is just as good as Enbrel IMHO and from my experiences until this point.

Good luck, I would say go forwards with an open mind and see how well you get on.

Mx

[JayneR in reply to Mandalou]

Thanks after 30 yrs plus after diagnosis I live every day as it comes, if cost helps the NHS then fine , perhaps they’ll have the money for my knee op that I’ve been waiting 18 mths for