Enbrel
The powerful anti-tumor necrosis factor Enbrel is a drug prescribed for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Additionally, Enbrel is showing promise for treating Alzheimer's disease. While it is currently not being prescribed for such purposes in the United States and further studies are necessary, doctors in Australia are prescribing it off-label for Alzheimer's disease.1
Fast Facts
- Generic name: Etanercept
- FDA approved: 1998
- Manufacturers: Amgen, Wyeth
- Class: Tumor necrosis factor blocker
- Use: Rheumatoid arthritis
- Potential use: Alzheimer's disease
- Route: Subcutaneous
Side Effects
Serious Interactions
FDA Warning
On September 4, 2008, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States issued a warning in regards to reports of histoplasmosis in patients being treated with Enbrel. Other tumor necrosis factor blockers, such as Cimzia, Remicade and Humira, were also included in the FDA warning issued.2
Enbrel and Alzheimer's Disease
Researchers are finding that an elevated level of the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) may be a key component in the development of Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, since Enbrel inhibits TNF, it has the potential to treat Alzheimer's disease.3
Disclaimer
This page is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your doctor for further information about Enbrel.
Related Pages on Mahalo
Arthritis | Rheumatoid Arthritis | Alzheimer's Disease | Wyeth Pharmaceuticals | Cimzia | Amgen | Remicade | Humira
Categories
