ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
You'll be tested for TB and hepatitis B before starting.
What it's used for
- Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis
- Psoriasis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Juvenile arthritis
How to take it
- Inject once or twice a week under the skin.
- Let it warm to room temperature first. Rotate spots.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Injection site reactions
- Colds and sinus infections
Call your provider todayFever, chills, sore throat, or other signs of infection
Call your provider todayCough, night sweats, or weight loss (possible TB)
Call your provider todayNumbness, vision changes, or weakness (rare nerve problems)
Warnings
- Boxed warnings: serious infections and some cancers.
- Avoid live vaccines.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Don't combine with anakinra or abatacept.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Talk with your provider.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Inject when you remember, then ask your provider how to continue your schedule.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Keep in the refrigerator; don't freeze. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 14 days.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Etanercept (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.