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ENBREL

Immunex Corporation

HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATIONThese highlights do not include all the information needed to use Enbrel safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for Enbrel. Enbrel (etanercept)Solution for Subcutaneous UseInitial U.S. Approval: 1998BOXED WARNING WARNINGS: SERIOUS INFECTIONS AND MALIGNANCIES See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. SERIOUS INFECTIONS Increased risk of serious infections leading to hospitalization or death, including tuberculosis (TB), bacterial sepsis, invasive fungal infections (such as histoplasmosis), and infections due to other opportunistic pathogens. (5.1) Enbrel should be discontinued if a patient develops a serious infection or sepsis during treatment. (5.1) Perform test for latent TB; if positive, start treatment for TB prior to starting Enbrel. (5.1) Monitor all patients for active TB during treatment, even if initial latent TB test is negative. (5.1) MALIGNANCIES Lymphoma and other malignancies, some fatal, have been reported in children and adolescent patients treated with TNF blockers, including Enbrel. (5.3) INDICATIONS AND USAGEEnbrel is a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker indicated for the treatment of: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) (1.1) Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) in patients aged 2 years or older (1.2) Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) (1.3) Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) (1.4) Plaque Psoriasis (PsO) (1.5) DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATIONEnbrel is administered by subcutaneous injection. Adult RA and PsA (2.1) 50 mg once weekly with or without methotrexate (MTX) AS (2.1) 50 mg once weekly Adult PsO (2.2) 50 mg twice weekly for 3 months, followed by 50 mg once weekly JIA (2.3) 0.8 mg/kg weekly, with a maximum of 50 mg per week DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS 50 mg Single-use Prefilled Syringe (3) 0.98 mL of a 50 mg/mL solution of etanercept 50 mg Single-use Prefilled SureClick® Autoinjector (3) 0.98 mL of a 50 mg/mL solution of etanercept 25 mg Single-use Prefilled Syringe (3) 0.51 mL of a 50 mg/mL solution of etanercept 25 mg Multiple-use Vial (3) 25 mg of etanercept CONTRAINDICATIONS Sepsis (4) WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Do not start Enbrel during an active infection. If an infection develops, monitor carefully and stop Enbrel if infection becomes serious. (5.1) Consider empiric anti-fungal therapy for patients at risk for invasive fungal infections who develop a severe systemic illness on Enbrel (those who reside or travel to regions where mycoses are endemic). (5.1) Demyelinating disease, exacerbation or new onset, may occur. (5.2) Cases of lymphoma have been observed in patients receiving TNF-blocking agents. (5.3) Congestive heart failure, worsening or new onset, may occur. (5.4) Advise patients to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of pancytopenia or aplastic anemia develop, and consider stopping Enbrel. (5.5) Monitor patients previously infected with hepatitis B virus for reactivation during and several months after therapy.  If reactivation occurs, consider stopping Enbrel and beginning anti-viral therapy. (5.6) Anaphylaxis or serious allergic reactions may occur. (5.7) Stop Enbrel if lupus-like syndrome or autoimmune hepatitis develops. (5.9) Side EffectsMost common adverse reactions (incidence > 5%):  infections and injection site reactions. (6.1) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Amgen Inc. at 1-800-77-AMGEN (1-800-772-6436) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.DRUG INTERACTIONS Live vaccines – should not be given with Enbrel (5.8, 7.1) Anakinra – increased risk of serious infection (5.12, 7.2) Abatacept – increased risk of serious adverse events, including infections (5.12, 7.2) Cyclophosphamide – use with Enbrel is not recommended (7.3)


FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION: CONTENTS*




FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION

WARNINGS: SERIOUS INFECTIONS AND MALIGNANCIES

SERIOUS INFECTIONS

Patients treated with Enbrel are at increased risk for developing serious infections that may le ad to hospitalization or death [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Adverse Reactions (6)]. Most patients who developed these infections were taking concomitant immunosuppressants such as methotrexate or corticosteroids.

Enbrel should be discontinued if a patient develops a serious infection or sepsis.

Reported infections include:

  • Active tuberculosis, including reactivation of latent tuberculosis. Patients with tuberculosis have frequently presented with disseminated or extrapulmonary disease. Patients should be tested for latent tuberculosis before Enbrel use and during therapy. Treatment for latent infection should be initiated prior to Enbrel use.
  • Invasive fungal infections, including histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, candidiasis, aspergillosis, blastomycosis, and pneumocystosis. Patients with histoplasmosis or other invasive fungal infections may present with disseminated, rather than localized, disease. Antigen and antibody testing for histoplasmosis may be negative in some patients with active infection. Empiric anti-fungal therapy should be considered in patients at risk for invasive fungal infections who develop severe systemic illness.
  • Bacterial, viral, and other infections due to opportunistic pathogens, including Legionella and Listeria.

The risks and benefits of treatment with Enbrel should be carefully considered prior to initiating therapy in patients with chronic or recurrent infection.

Patients should be closely monitored for the development of signs and symptoms of infection during and after treatment with Enbrel, including the possible development of tuberculosis in patients who tested negative for latent tuberculosis infection prior to initiating therapy.

MALIGNANCIES

Lymphoma and other malignancies, some fatal, have been reported in children and adolescent patients treated with TNF blockers, including Enbrel.

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

1.1 Rheumatoid Arthritis

Enbrel is indicated for reducing signs and symptoms, inducing major clinical response, inhibiting the progression of structural damage, and improving physical function in patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Enbrel can be initiated in combination with methotrexate (MTX) or used alone.

1.2 Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Enbrel is indicated for reducing signs and symptoms of moderately to severely active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in patients ages 2 and older.

1.3 Psoriatic Arthritis

Enbrel is indicated for reducing signs and symptoms, inhibiting the progression of structural damage of active arthritis, and improving physical function in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Enbrel can be used in combination with methotrexate (MTX) in patients who do not respond adequately to MTX alone.

1.4 Ankylosing Spondylitis

Enbrel is indicated for reducing signs and symptoms in patients with active ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

1.5 Plaque Psoriasis

Enbrel is indicated for the treatment of adult patients (18 years or older) with chronic moderate to severe plaque psoriasis (PsO) who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy.

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

Table 1. Dosing and Administration for Adult Patients
 Patient Population Recommended Dosage Strength and Frequency
 Adult RA, AS, and PsA Patients 50 mg weekly
 Adult PsO Patients Starting Dose: 50 mg twice weekly for 3 months

Maintenance Dose: 50 mg once weekly

See the Enbrel (etanercept) “Instructions for Use” insert for detailed information on injection site selection and dose administration.

2.1 Adult Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, and Psoriatic Arthritis Patients

MTX, glucocorticoids, salicylates, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or analgesics may be continued during treatment with Enbrel.

Based on a study of 50 mg Enbrel twice weekly in patients with RA that suggested higher incidence of adverse reactions but similar American College of Rheumatology (ACR) response rates, doses higher than 50 mg per week are not recommended.

2.2 Adult Plaque Psoriasis Patients

In addition to the 50 mg twice weekly recommended starting dose, starting doses of 25 mg or 50 mg per week were shown to be efficacious. The proportion of responders was related to Enbrel dosage [see Clinical Studies (14.5)].

2.3 JIA Patients

Table 2. Dosing and Administration for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
  Pediatric Patients Weight   Recommended Dose
  63 kg (138 pounds) or more   50 mg weekly
  Less than 63 kg (138 pounds)   0.8 mg/kg weekly

In JIA patients, glucocorticoids, NSAIDs, or analgesics may be continued during treatment with Enbrel. Higher doses of Enbrel have not been studied in pediatric patients.

2.4 Preparation of Enbrel

Enbrel is intended for use under the guidance and supervision of a physician. Patients may self-inject when deemed appropriate and if they receive medical follow-up, as necessary. Patients should not self-administer until they receive proper training in how to prepare and administer the correct dose.

The Enbrel (etanercept) “Instructions for Use” insert for each presentation contains more detailed instructions on the preparation of Enbrel.

Preparation of Enbrel Using the Single-use Prefilled Syringe or Single-use Prefilled SureClick Autoinjector
For a more comfortable injection, leave Enbrel at room temperature for about 15 to 30 minutes before injecting.  DO NOT remove the needle cover while allowing the prefilled syringe to reach room temperature.

Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. There may be small white particles of protein in the solution. This is not unusual for proteinaceous solutions. The solution should not be used if discolored or cloudy, or if foreign particulate matter is present.

When using the Enbrel single-use prefilled syringe, check to see if the amount of liquid in the prefilled syringe falls between the two purple fill level indicator lines on the syringe. If the syringe does not have the right amount of liquid, DO NOT USE THAT SYRINGE.

Preparation of Enbrel Using the Multiple-use Vial
Enbrel should be reconstituted aseptically with 1 mL of the supplied Sterile Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP (0.9% benzyl alcohol), giving a solution of 1.0 mL containing 25 mg of Enbrel.

A vial adapter is supplied for use when reconstituting the lyophilized powder.  However, the vial adapter should not be used if multiple doses are going to be withdrawn from the vial.  If the vial will be used for multiple doses, a 25‑gauge needle should be used for reconstituting and withdrawing Enbrel, and the supplied “Mixing Date:” sticker should be attached to the vial and the date of reconstitution entered.  Reconstituted solution must be refrigerated at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) and used within 14 days.  Discard reconstituted solution after 14 days because product stability and sterility cannot be assured after 14 days. DO NOT store reconstituted Enbrel solution at room temperature.

For a more comfortable injection, leave the Enbrel dose tray at room temperature for about 15 to 30 minutes before injecting. 

If using the vial adapter, twist the vial adapter onto the diluent syringe.  Then, place the vial adapter over the Enbrel vial and insert the vial adapter into the vial stopper.  Push down on the plunger to inject the diluent into the Enbrel vial.  If using a 25‑gauge needle to reconstitute and withdraw Enbrel, the diluent should be injected very slowly into the Enbrel vial. It is normal for some foaming to occur.  Keeping the diluent syringe in place, gently swirl the contents of the Enbrel vial during dissolution.  To avoid excessive foaming, do not shake or vigorously agitate.

Generally, dissolution of Enbrel takes less than 10 minutes.  Do not use the solution if discolored or cloudy, or if particulate matter remains.

Withdraw the correct dose of reconstituted solution into the syringe.  Some foam or bubbles may remain in the vial.  Remove the syringe from the vial adapter or remove the 25‑gauge needle from the syringe.  Attach a 27‑gauge needle to inject Enbrel.

The contents of one vial of Enbrel solution should not be mixed with, or transferred into, the contents of another vial of Enbrel.  No other medications should be added to solutions containing Enbrel, and do not reconstitute Enbrel with other diluents.  Do not filter reconstituted solution during preparation or administration.

2.5 Monitoring to Assess Safety

Prior to initiating Enbrel and periodically during therapy, patients should be evaluated for active tuberculosis and tested for latent infection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

50 mg Single-use Prefilled Syringe 

0.98 mL of a 50 mg/mL solution of etanercept

50 mg Single-use Prefilled SureClick  Autoinjector

0.98 mL of a 50 mg/mL solution of etanercept

25 mg Single-use Prefilled Syringe

0.51 mL of a 50 mg/mL solution of etanercept

25 mg Multiple-use Vial

25 mg of etanercept

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

Enbrel should not be administered to patients with sepsis.

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 Serious Infections

Patients treated with Enbrel are at increased risk for developing serious infections involving various organ systems and sites that may lead to hospitalization or death.

Opportunistic infections due to bacterial, mycobacterial, invasive fungal, viral, parasitic, or other opportunistic pathogens including aspergillosis, blastomycosis, candidiasis, coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, legionellosis, listeriosis, pneumocystosis, and tuberculosis have been reported with TNF blockers.  Patients have frequently presented with disseminated rather than localized disease.

Treatment with Enbrel should not be initiated in patients with an active infection, including clinically important localized infections.  Patients greater than 65 years of age, patients with co-morbid conditions, and/or patients taking concomitant immunosuppressants (such as corticosteroids or methotrexate), may be at greater risk of infection.  The risks and benefits of treatment should be considered prior to initiating therapy in patients:

  • With chronic or recurrent infection;
  • Who have been exposed to tuberculosis;
  • With a history of an opportunistic infection;
  • Who have resided or traveled in areas of endemic tuberculosis or endemic mycoses, such as histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, or blastomycosis; or
  • With underlying conditions that may predispose them to infection, such as advanced or poorly controlled diabetes [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Patients should be closely monitored for the development of signs and symptoms of infection during and after treatment with Enbrel.

Enbrel should be discontinued if a patient develops a serious infection or sepsis.  A patient who develops a new infection during treatment with Enbrel should be closely monitored, undergo a prompt and complete diagnostic workup appropriate for an immunocompromised patient, and appropriate antimicrobial therapy should be initiated.

Tuberculosis
Cases of reactivation of tuberculosis or new tuberculosis infections have been observed in patients receiving Enbrel, including patients who have previously received treatment for latent or active tuberculosis.  Data from clinical trials and preclinical studies suggest that the risk of reactivation of latent tuberculosis infection is lower with Enbrel than with TNF-blocking monoclonal antibodies.  Nonetheless, postmarketing cases of tuberculosis reactivation have been reported for TNF blockers, including Enbrel.  Tuberculosis has developed in patients who tested negative for latent tuberculosis prior to initiation of therapy.  Patients should be evaluated for tuberculosis risk factors and tested for latent infection prior to initiating Enbrel and periodically during therapy.  Tests for latent tuberculosis infection may be falsely negative while on therapy with Enbrel.

Treatment of latent tuberculosis infection prior to therapy with TNF-blocking agents has been shown to reduce the risk of tuberculosis reactivation during therapy.  Induration of 5 mm or greater with tuberculin skin testing should be considered a positive test result when assessing if treatment for latent tuberculosis is needed prior to initiating Enbrel, even for patients previously vaccinated with Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG).

Anti-tuberculosis therapy should also be considered prior to initiation of Enbrel in patients with a past history of latent or active tuberculosis in whom an adequate course of treatment cannot be confirmed, and for patients with a negative test for latent tuberculosis but having risk factors for tuberculosis infection.  Consultation with a physician with expertise in the treatment of tuberculosis is recommended to aid in the decision whether initiating anti-tuberculosis therapy is appropriate for an individual patient.

Tuberculosis should be strongly considered in patients who develop a new infection during Enbrel treatment, especially in patients who have previously or recently traveled to countries with a high prevalence of tuberculosis, or who have had close contact with a person with active tuberculosis.

Invasive Fungal Infections
Cases of serious and sometimes fatal fungal infections, including histoplasmosis, have been reported with TNF blockers, including Enbrel.  For patients who reside or travel in regions where mycoses are endemic, invasive fungal infection should be suspected if they develop a serious systemic illness.  Appropriate empiric anti-fungal therapy should be considered while a diagnostic workup is being performed.  Antigen and antibody testing for histoplasmosis may be negative in some patients with active infection.  When feasible, the decision to administer empiric anti-fungal therapy in these patients should be made in consultation with a physician with expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of invasive fungal infections and should take into account both the risk for severe fungal infection and the risks of anti-fungal therapy.  In 38 Enbrel clinical trials and 4 cohort studies in all approved indications representing 27,169 patient-years of exposure (17,696 patients) from the United States and Canada, no histoplasmosis infections were reported among patients treated with Enbrel.

5.2 Neurologic Events

Treatment with TNF-blocking agents, including Enbrel, has been associated with rare (< 0.1%) cases of new onset or exacerbation of central nervous system demyelinating disorders, some presenting with mental status changes and some associated with permanent disability, and with peripheral nervous system demyelinating disorders. Cases of transverse myelitis, optic neuritis, multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barré syndromes, other peripheral demyelinating neuropathies, and new onset or exacerbation of seizure disorders have been reported in postmarketing experience with Enbrel therapy. Prescribers should exercise caution in considering the use of Enbrel in patients with preexisting or recent-onset central or peripheral nervous system demyelinating disorders [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].

5.3 Malignancies

Lymphomas
In the controlled portions of clinical trials of TNF‑blocking agents, more cases of lymphoma have been observed among patients receiving a TNF blocker compared to control patients.  During the controlled portions of Enbrel trials in adult patients with RA, AS, and PsA, 2 lymphomas were observed among 3306 Enbrel‑treated patients versus 0 among 1521 control patients (duration of controlled treatment ranged from 3 to 36 months).

Among 6543 adult rheumatology (RA, PsA, AS) patients treated with Enbrel in controlled and uncontrolled portions of clinical trials, representing approximately 12,845 patient‑years of therapy, the observed rate of lymphoma was 0.10 cases per 100 patient‑years.  This was 3‑fold higher than the rate of lymphoma expected in the general U.S. population based on the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Database.  An increased rate of lymphoma up to several-fold has been reported in the RA patient population, and may be further increased in patients with more severe disease activity.

Among 4410 adult PsO patients treated with Enbrel in clinical trials up to 36 months, representing approximately 4278 patient‑years of therapy, the observed rate of lymphoma was 0.05 cases per 100 patient‑years, which is comparable to the rate in the general population.  No cases were observed in Enbrel- or placebo-treated patients during the controlled portions of these trials.

Leukemia
Cases of acute and chronic leukemia have been reported in association with postmarketing TNF-blocker use in rheumatoid arthritis and other indications.  Even in the absence of TNF-blocker therapy, patients with rheumatoid arthritis may be at higher risk (approximately 2-fold) than the general population for the development of leukemia.

During the controlled portions of Enbrel trials, 2 cases of leukemia were observed among 5445 (0.06 cases per 100 patient-years) Enbrel-treated patients versus 0 among 2890 (0%) control patients (duration of controlled treatment ranged from 3 to 48 months).

Among 15,401 patients treated with Enbrel in controlled and open portions of clinical trials representing approximately 23,325 patient-years of therapy, the observed rate of leukemia was 0.03 cases per 100 patient-years.

Other Malignancies
Information is available from 10,953 adult patients with 17,123 patient-years and 696 pediatric patients with 1282 patient-years of experience across 45 Enbrel clinical studies.

For malignancies other than lymphoma and non-melanoma skin cancer, there was no difference in exposure-adjusted rates between the Enbrel and control arms in the controlled portions of clinical studies for all indications.  Analysis of the malignancy rate in combined controlled and uncontrolled portions of studies has demonstrated that types and rates are similar to what is expected in the general U.S. population based on the SEER database and suggests no increase in rates over time. Whether treatment with Enbrel might influence the development and course of malignancies in adults is unknown.

Melanoma and Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC)
Melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer has been reported in patients treated with TNF antagonists including etanercept. 

Among 15,401 patients treated with Enbrel in controlled and open portions of clinical trials representing approximately 23,325 patient-years of therapy, the observed rate of melanoma was 0.043 cases per 100 patient-years.

Among 3306 adult rheumatology (RA, PsA, AS) patients treated with Enbrel in controlled clinical trials representing approximately 2669 patient‑years of therapy, the observed rate of NMSC was 0.41 cases per 100 patient‑years vs 0.37 cases per 100 patient-years among 1521 control-treated patients representing 1077 patient-years.  Among 1245 adult psoriasis patients treated with Enbrel in controlled clinical trials, representing approximately 283 patient‑years of therapy, the observed rate of NMSC was 3.54 cases per 100 patient-years vs 1.28 cases per 100 patient-years among 720 control-treated patients representing 156 patient-years. 

Postmarketing cases of Merkel cell carcinoma have been reported very infrequently in patients treated with Enbrel.

Periodic skin examinations should be considered for all patients at increased risk for skin cancer.

Pediatric Patients
Malignancies, some fatal, have been reported among children, adolescents, and young adults who received treatment with TNF-blocking agents (initiation of therapy at ≤ 18 years of age), including Enbrel.  Approximately half the cases were lymphomas, including Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.  The other cases represented a variety of different malignancies and included rare malignancies usually associated with immunosuppression and malignancies that are not usually observed in children and adolescents.  The malignancies occurred after a median of 30 months of therapy (range 1 to 84 months).  Most of the patients were receiving concomitant immunosuppressants.  These cases were reported postmarketing and are derived from a variety of sources, including registries and spontaneous postmarketing reports.

In clinical trials of 1140 pediatric patients representing 1927.2 patient-years of therapy, no malignancies, including lymphoma or NMSC, have been reported.

Postmarketing Use
In global postmarketing adult and pediatric use, lymphoma and other malignancies have been reported.

5.4 Patients With Heart Failure

Two clinical trials evaluating the use of Enbrel in the treatment of heart failure were terminated early due to lack of efficacy. One of these studies suggested higher mortality in Enbrel-treated patients compared to placebo [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. There have been postmarketing reports of worsening of congestive heart failure (CHF), with and without identifiable precipitating factors, in patients taking Enbrel. There have also been rare (< 0.1%) reports of new onset CHF, including CHF in patients without known preexisting cardiovascular disease. Some of these patients have been under 50 years of age. Physicians should exercise caution when using Enbrel in patients who also have heart failure, and monitor patients carefully.

5.5 Hematologic Events

Rare (< 0.1%) reports of pancytopenia, including very rare (< 0.01%) reports of aplastic anemia, some with a fatal outcome, have been reported in patients treated with Enbrel. The causal relationship to Enbrel therapy remains unclear. Although no high-risk group has been identified, caution should be exercised in patients being treated with Enbrel who have a previous history of significant hematologic abnormalities. All patients should be advised to seek immediate medical attention if they develop signs and symptoms suggestive of blood dyscrasias or infection (eg, persistent fever, bruising, bleeding, pallor) while on Enbrel. Discontinuation of Enbrel therapy should be considered in patients with confirmed significant hematologic abnormalities.

Two percent of patients treated concurrently with Enbrel and anakinra developed neutropenia (ANC < 1 x 109/L). While neutropenic, one patient developed cellulitis that resolved with antibiotic therapy.

5.6 Hepatitis B Reactivation

Reactivation of hepatitis B in patients who were previously infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and had received concomitant TNF-blocking agents, including very rare cases (< 0.01%) with Enbrel, has been reported.  In some instances, hepatitis B reactivation occurring in conjunction with TNF-blocker therapy has been fatal.  The majority of these reports have occurred in patients concomitantly receiving other medications that suppress the immune system, which may also contribute to hepatitis B reactivation.  Patients at risk for HBV infection should be evaluated for prior evidence of HBV infection before initiating TNF-blocker therapy.  Prescribers should exercise caution in prescribing TNF blockers in patients previously infected with HBV.  Adequate data are not available on the safety or efficacy of treating patients who are carriers of HBV with anti-viral therapy in conjunction with TNF-blocker therapy to prevent HBV reactivation.  Patients previously infected with HBV and require treatment with Enbrel should be closely monitored for clinical and laboratory signs of active HBV infection throughout therapy and for several months following termination of therapy.  In patients who develop HBV reactivation, consideration should be given to stopping Enbrel and initiating anti-viral therapy with appropriate supportive treatment.  The safety of resuming Enbrel therapy after HBV reactivation is controlled is not known.  Therefore, prescribers should weigh the risks and benefits when considering resumption of therapy in this situation.

5.7 Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions associated with administration of Enbrel during clinical trials have been reported in < 2% of patients. If an anaphylactic reaction or other serious allergic reaction occurs, administration of Enbrel should be discontinued immediately and appropriate therapy initiated.

Caution: The following components contain dry natural rubber (a derivative of latex), which may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to latex: the needle cover of the prefilled syringe and the needle cover within the needle cap of the SureClick autoinjector.

5.8 Immunizations

Live vaccines should not be given concurrently with Enbrel. It is recommended that pediatric patients, if possible, be brought up-to-date with all immunizations in agreement with current immunization guidelines prior to initiating Enbrel therapy [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].

5.9 Autoimmunity

Treatment with Enbrel may result in the formation of autoantibodies [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )]  and, rarely (< 0.1%), in the development of a lupus-like syndrome or autoimmune hepatitis [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] , which may resolve following withdrawal of Enbrel. If a patient develops symptoms and findings suggestive of a lupus-like syndrome or autoimmune hepatitis following treatment with Enbrel, treatment should be discontinued and the patient should be carefully evaluated.

5.10 Immunosuppression

TNF mediates inflammation and modulates cellular immune responses.  TNF-blocking agents, including Enbrel, affect host defenses against infections.  The effect of TNF inhibition on the development and course of malignancies is not fully understood.  In a study of 49 patients with RA treated with Enbrel, there was no evidence of depression of delayed‑type hypersensitivity, depression of immunoglobulin levels, or change in enumeration of effector cell populations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.3) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

5.11 Use in Wegener’s Granulomatosis Patients

The use of Enbrel in patients with Wegener’s granulomatosis receiving immunosuppressive agents is not recommended. In a study of patients with Wegener’s granulomatosis, the addition of Enbrel to standard therapy (including cyclophosphamide) was associated with a higher incidence of non-cutaneous solid malignancies and was not associated with improved clinical outcomes when compared with standard therapy alone [see Drug Interactions (7.3)].

5.12 Use with Anakinra or Abatacept

Use of Enbrel with anakinra or abatacept is not recommended [see Drug Interactions (7.2)].

5.13 Use in Patients with Moderate to Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis

In a study of 48 hospitalized patients treated with Enbrel or placebo for moderate to severe alcoholic hepatitis, the mortality rate in patients treated with Enbrel was similar to patients treated with placebo at 1 month but significantly higher after 6 months. Physicians should use caution when using Enbrel in patients with moderate to severe alcoholic hepatitis.

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

Across clinical studies and postmarketing experience, the most serious adverse reactions with Enbrel were infections, neurologic events, CHF, and hematologic events [see Warnings and Precautions (5)]. The most common adverse reactions with Enbrel were infections and injection site reactions.

6.1 Clinical Studies Experience

Adverse Reactions in Adult Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, or Plaque Psoriasis
The data described below reflect exposure to Enbrel in 2219 adult patients with RA followed for up to 80 months, in 182 patients with PsA for up to 24 months, in 138 patients with AS for up to 6 months, and in 1204 adult patients with PsO for up to 18 months.

In controlled trials, the proportion of Enbrel‑treated patients who discontinued treatment due to adverse events was approximately 4% in the indications studied. 

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reactions rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not predict the rates observed in clinical practice.

Infections
Infections, including viral, bacterial, and fungal infections, have been observed in adult and pediatric patients.  Infections have been noted in all body systems and have been reported in patients receiving Enbrel alone or in combination with other immunosuppressive agents.

In controlled portions of trials, the types and severity of infection were similar between Enbrel and the respective control group (placebo or MTX for RA and PsA patients) in RA, PsA, AS and PsO patients.  Rates of infections in RA and PsO patients are provided in Table 3 and Table 4, respectively.  Infections consisted primarily of upper respiratory tract infection, sinusitis and influenza.

In controlled portions of trials in RA, PsA, AS and PsO, the rates of serious infection were similar (0.8% in placebo, 3.6% in MTX, and 1.4% in Enbrel/Enbrel + MTX‑treated groups).  In clinical trials in rheumatologic indications, serious infections experienced by patients have included, but are not limited to, pneumonia, cellulitis, septic arthritis, bronchitis, gastroenteritis, pyelonephritis, sepsis, abscess and osteomyelitis.  In clinical trials in PsO, serious infections experienced by patients have included, but are not limited to, pneumonia, cellulitis, gastroenteritis, abscess and osteomyelitis.  The rate of serious infections was not increased in open‑label extension trials and was similar to that observed in Enbrel‑ and placebo‑treated patients from controlled trials.  

In 66 global clinical trials of 17,505 patients (21,015 patient-years of therapy), tuberculosis was observed in approximately 0.02% of patients.  In 17,696 patients (27,169 patient-years of therapy) from 38 clinical trials and 4 cohort studies in the U.S. and Canada, tuberculosis was observed in approximately 0.006% of patients.  These studies include reports of pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Injection Site Reactions
In placebo-controlled trials in rheumatologic indications, approximately 37% of patients treated with Enbrel developed injection site reactions.  In controlled trials in patients with PsO, 15% of patients treated with Enbrel developed injection site reactions during the first 3 months of treatment.  All injection site reactions were described as mild to moderate (erythema, itching, pain, swelling, bleeding, bruising) and generally did not necessitate drug discontinuation.  Injection site reactions generally occurred in the first month and subsequently decreased in frequency.  The mean duration of injection site reactions was 3 to 5 days.  Seven percent of patients experienced redness at a previous injection site when subsequent injections were given.  

Immunogenicity
Patients with RA, PsA, AS or PsO were tested at multiple time points for antibodies to etanercept.  Antibodies to the TNF receptor portion or other protein components of the Enbrel drug product were detected at least once in sera of approximately 6% of adult patients with RA, PsA, AS or PsO.  These antibodies were all non-neutralizing. Results from JIA patients were similar to those seen in adult RA patients treated with Enbrel. 

In PsO studies that evaluated the exposure of etanercept for up to 120 weeks, the percentage of patients testing positive at the assessed time points of 24, 48, 72 and 96 weeks ranged from 3.6%-8.7% and were all non-neutralizing.  The percentage of patients testing positive increased with an increase in the duration of study; however, the clinical significance of this finding is unknown.  No apparent correlation of antibody development to clinical response or adverse events was observed. The immunogenicity data of Enbrel beyond 120 weeks of exposure are unknown.

The data reflect the percentage of patients whose test results were considered positive for antibodies to etanercept in an ELISA assay, and are highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay.  Additionally, the observed incidence of any antibody positivity in an assay is highly dependent on several factors, including assay sensitivity and specificity, assay methodology, sample handling, timing of sample collection, concomitant medications and underlying disease.  For these reasons, comparison of the incidence of antibodies to etanercept with the incidence of antibodies to other products may be misleading.

Autoantibodies
Patients with RA had serum samples tested for autoantibodies at multiple time points.  In RA Studies I and II, the percentage of patients evaluated for antinuclear antibodies (ANA) who developed new positive ANA (titer ≥ 1:40) was higher in patients treated with Enbrel (11%) than in placebo‑treated patients (5%).  The percentage of patients who developed new positive anti‑double‑stranded DNA antibodies was also higher by radioimmunoassay (15% of patients treated with Enbrel compared to 4% of placebo‑treated patients) and by Crithidia luciliae assay (3% of patients treated with Enbrel compared to none of placebo‑treated patients).  The proportion of patients treated with Enbrel who developed anticardiolipin antibodies was similarly increased compared to placebo‑treated patients.  In RA Study III, no pattern of increased autoantibody development was seen in Enbrel patients compared to MTX patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].

Other Adverse Reactions
Table 3 summarizes adverse reactions reported in adult RA patients.  The types of adverse reactions seen in patients with PsA or AS were similar to the types of adverse reactions seen in patients with RA.

Table 3. Percent of Adult RA Patients Experiencing Adverse Reactions in Controlled Clinical Trials
     

Placebo ControlledIncludes data from the 6-month study in which patients received concurrent MTX therapy in both arms.

(Studies I, II, and a Phase 2 Study)
  

Active ControlledStudy duration of 2 years.

(Study III)
     

Placebo

(N = 152)
  

EnbrelAny dose.

(N = 349)
  

MTX

(N = 217)
  

EnbrelAny dose.

(N = 415)
  Reaction   Percent of Patients   Percent of Patients
  Infection Includes bacterial, viral and fungal infections. (total)   39   50   86   81
  Upper Respiratory Infections Most frequent Upper Respiratory Infections were upper respiratory tract infection, sinusitis and influenza.   30   38   70   65
  Non-upper Respiratory Infections   15   21   59   54
  Injection Site Reactions   11   37   18   43
  Diarrhea   9   8   16   16
  Rash   2   3   19   13
  Pruritus   1   2   5   5
  Pyrexia   -   3   4   2
  Urticaria   1   -   4   2
  Hypersensitivity   -   -   1   1

In placebo-controlled PsO trials, the percentages of patients reporting adverse reactions in the 50 mg twice a week dose group were similar to those observed in the 25 mg twice a week dose group or placebo group.

Table 4 summarizes adverse reactions reported in adult PsO patients from Studies I and II.

Table 4. Percent of Adult PsO Patients Experiencing Adverse Reactions in Placebo-Controlled Portions of Clinical Trials (Studies I & II)
     

Placebo

(N = 359)
  

EnbrelIncludes 25 mg subcutaneous (SC) once weekly (QW), 25 mg SC twice weekly (BIW), 50 mg SC QW, and 50 mg SC BIW doses.

(N = 876)
  Reaction   Percent of Patients
  Infection Includes bacterial, viral and fungal infections. (total)   28   27
  Non-upper Respiratory Infections   14   12
  Upper Respiratory Infections Most frequent Upper Respiratory Infections were upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis and sinusitis.   17   17
  Injection Site Reactions   6   15
  Diarrhea   2   3
  Rash   1   1
  Pruritus   2   1
  Urticaria   -   1
  Hypersensitivity   -   1
  Pyrexia   1   -

Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients
In general, the adverse reactions in pediatric patients were similar in frequency and type as those seen in adult patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5), Adverse Reactions (6), and Clinical Studies (14.2)].  The types of infections reported in pediatric patients were generally mild and consistent with those commonly seen in the general pediatric population.  Two JIA patients developed varicella infection and signs and symptoms of aseptic meningitis, which resolved without sequelae.  

In open-label clinical studies of children with JIA, adverse reactions reported in those ages 2 to 4 years were similar to adverse reactions reported in older children.

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

Adverse reactions have been reported during post approval use of Enbrel in adults and pediatric patients. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to Enbrel exposure.

Adverse reactions are listed by body system below:

 

Blood and lymphatic system disorders:

 

pancytopenia, anemia, leukopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, lymphadenopathy, aplastic anemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]

 

Cardiac disorders:

 

congestive heart failure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]

 

Gastrointestinal disorders:

 

inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

 

General disorders:

 

angioedema, chest pain

 

Hepatobiliary disorders:

 

autoimmune hepatitis, elevated transaminases, hepatitis B reactivation

 

Immune disorders:

 

macrophage activation syndrome, systemic vasculitis, sarcoidosis

 

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders:

 

lupus‑like syndrome

 

Neoplasms benign, malignant, and unspecified:

 

melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, Merkel cell carcinoma [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]

 

Nervous system disorders:

 

convulsions, multiple sclerosis, demyelination, optic neuritis, transverse myelitis, paresthesias [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]

 

Ocular disorders:

 

uveitis, scleritis

 

Respiratory, thoracic
and mediastinal disorders:

 

interstitial lung disease

 

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders:

 

cutaneous lupus erythematosus, cutaneous vasculitis (including leukocytoclastic vasculitis), erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, subcutaneous nodule, new or worsening psoriasis (all sub-types including pustular and palmoplantar)

Opportunistic infections, including atypical mycobacterial infection, herpes zoster, aspergillosis and Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia, and protozoal infections have also been reported in postmarketing use.

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

Specific drug interaction studies have not been conducted with Enbrel.

7.1 Vaccines

Most PsA patients receiving Enbrel were able to mount effective B-cell immune responses to pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine, but titers in aggregate were moderately lower and fewer patients had 2-fold rises in titers compared to patients not receiving Enbrel. The clinical significance of this is unknown. Patients receiving Enbrel may receive concurrent vaccinations, except for live vaccines. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection by live vaccines in patients receiving Enbrel.

Patients with a significant exposure to varicella virus should temporarily discontinue Enbrel therapy and be considered for prophylactic treatment with varicella zoster immune globulin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8, 5.10)].

7.2 Immune-Modulating Biologic Products

In a study in which patients with active RA were treated for up to 24 weeks with concurrent Enbrel and anakinra therapy, a 7% rate of serious infections was observed, which was higher than that observed with Enbrel alone (0%) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)] and did not result in higher ACR response rates compared to Enbrel alone. The most common infections consisted of bacterial pneumonia (4 cases) and cellulitis (4 cases). One patient with pulmonary fibrosis and pneumonia died due to respiratory failure. Two percent of patients treated concurrently with Enbrel and anakinra developed neutropenia (ANC < 1 x 109/L).

In clinical studies, concurrent administration of abatacept and Enbrel resulted in increased incidences of serious adverse events, including infections, and did not demonstrate increased clinical benefit [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].

7.3 Cyclophosphamide

The use of Enbrel in patients receiving concurrent cyclophosphamide therapy is not recommended [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)].

7.4 Sulfasalazine

Patients in a clinical study who were on established therapy with sulfasalazine, to which Enbrel was added, were noted to develop a mild decrease in mean neutrophil counts in comparison to groups treated with either Enbrel or sulfasalazine alone. The clinical significance of this observation is unknown.

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

8.1 Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category B 

Pregnancy Surveillance Program
There is a Pregnancy Surveillance Program that monitors outcomes in women exposed to Enbrel during pregnancy. Women who become pregnant during Enbrel treatment are encouraged to enroll. Patients or their physicians should call 1-800-77-AMGEN (1-800-772-6436) to enroll.

Risk Summary
There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. Based on limited data, etanercept concentration in cord blood at the time of delivery showed that etanercept crossed the placenta in small amounts.

Developmental toxicity studies have been performed in rats and rabbits at doses ranging from 60‑ to 100‑fold higher than the human dose and have revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus due to Enbrel.  Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Human Data
Three case reports showed that cord blood levels of etanercept at delivery in infants, born to mothers administered etanercept during pregnancy, were between 3 and 32% of the maternal serum level.

8.3 Nursing Mothers

Limited data from published literature show that etanercept is present in low levels in human milk and minimally absorbed by a breastfed infant. Caution should be exercised when Enbrel is administered to a nursing woman. The development and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for Enbrel and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from the drug or from the underlying maternal condition.

Women who choose to continue Enbrel treatment while nursing are encouraged to enroll in Amgen’s Lactation Surveillance Program.  Patients or their physicians should call 1-800-77-AMGEN (1-800-772-6436) to enroll.

8.4 Pediatric Use

Enbrel has not been studied in children < 2 years of age with JIA. The safety and efficacy of Enbrel in pediatric patients with PsO have not been studied.

Rare (< 0.1%) cases of IBD have been reported in JIA patients receiving Enbrel, which is not effective for the treatment of IBD [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].

The clinical significance of infant exposure to Enbrel in utero is unknown. The safety of administering live or live-attenuated vaccines in exposed infants is unknown. Risks and benefits should be considered prior to administering live or live-attenuated vaccines to exposed infants.

8.5 Geriatric Use

A total of 480 RA patients ages 65 years or older have been studied in clinical trials. In PsO randomized clinical trials, a total of 138 out of 1965 patients treated with Enbrel or placebo were age 65 or older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients, but the number of geriatric PsO patients is too small to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients. Because there is a higher incidence of infections in the elderly population in general, caution should be used in treating the elderly.

8.6 Use in Diabetics

There have been reports of hypoglycemia following initiation of Enbrel therapy in patients receiving medication for diabetes, necessitating a reduction in anti-diabetic medication in some of these patients.

10 OVERDOSAGE

Toxicology studies have been performed in monkeys at doses up to 30 times the human dose with no evidence of dose-limiting toxicities. No dose-limiting toxicities have been observed during clinical trials of Enbrel. Single IV doses up to 60 mg/m2 (approximately twice the recommended dose) have been administered to healthy volunteers in an endotoxemia study without evidence of dose-limiting toxicities.

11 DESCRIPTION

Enbrel (etanercept) is a dimeric fusion protein consisting of the extracellular ligand-binding portion of the human 75 kilodalton (p75) tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) linked to the Fc portion of human IgG1. The Fc component of etanercept contains the CH2 domain, the CH3 domain and hinge region, but not the CH1 domain of IgG1. Etanercept is produced by recombinant DNA technology in a Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) mammalian cell expression system. It consists of 934 amino acids and has an apparent molecular weight of approximately 150 kilodaltons.

The solution of Enbrel in the single-use prefilled syringe and the single-use prefilled SureClick autoinjector is clear and colorless, sterile, preservative-free, and is formulated at pH 6.3 ± 0.2.

Enbrel is also supplied in a multiple-use vial as a sterile, white, preservative-free, lyophilized powder. Reconstitution with 1 mL of the supplied Sterile Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP (containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol) yields a multiple-use, clear, and colorless solution with a pH of 7.4 ± 0.3.

Table 5. Contents of Enbrel
 Presentation  Active Ingredient Content  Inactive Ingredients Content
 Enbrel 50 mg prefilled syringe and SureClick autoinjector  0.98 mL of a 50 mg/mL solution of etanercept 1% sucrose

100 mM sodium chloride

25 mM L-arginine hydrochloride

25 mM sodium phosphate

 Enbrel 25 mg prefilled syringe  0.51 mL of a 50 mg/mL solution of etanercept 1% sucrose

100 mM sodium chloride

25 mM L-arginine hydrochloride

25 mM sodium phosphate

 Enbrel 25 mg multiple-use vial  25 mg etanercept 40 mg mannitol

10 mg sucrose

1.2 mg tromethamine

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

12.1 Mechanism of Action

TNF is a naturally occurring cytokine that is involved in normal inflammatory and immune responses. It plays an important role in the inflammatory processes of RA, polyarticular JIA, PsA, and AS and the resulting joint pathology. In addition, TNF plays a role in the inflammatory process of PsO. Elevated levels of TNF are found in involved tissues and fluids of patients with RA, JIA, PsA, AS, and PsO.

Two distinct receptors for TNF (TNFRs), a 55 kilodalton protein (p55) and a 75 kilodalton protein (p75), exist naturally as monomeric molecules on cell surfaces and in soluble forms. Biological activity of TNF is dependent upon binding to either cell surface TNFR.

Etanercept is a dimeric soluble form of the p75 TNF receptor that can bind TNF molecules. Etanercept inhibits binding of TNF-α and TNF-β (lymphotoxin alpha [LT-α]) to cell surface TNFRs, rendering TNF biologically inactive. In in vitro studies, large complexes of etanercept with TNF-α were not detected and cells expressing transmembrane TNF (that binds Enbrel) are not lysed in the presence or absence of complement.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

Etanercept can modulate biological responses that are induced or regulated by TNF, including expression of adhesion molecules responsible for leukocyte migration (eg, E-selectin, and to a lesser extent, intercellular adhesion molecule-1 [ICAM-1]), serum levels of cytokines (eg, IL-6), and serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3 or stromelysin). Etanercept has been shown to affect several animal models of inflammation, including murine collagen-induced arthritis.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

After administration of 25 mg of Enbrel by a single SC injection to 25 patients with RA, a mean ± standard deviation half‑life of 102 ± 30 hours was observed with a clearance of 160 ± 80 mL/hr.  A maximum serum concentration (Cmax) of 1.1 ± 0.6 mcg/mL and time to Cmax of 69 ± 34 hours was observed in these patients following a single 25 mg dose.  After 6 months of twice weekly 25 mg doses in these same RA patients, the mean Cmax was 2.4 ± 1.0 mcg/mL (N = 23).  Patients exhibited a 2‑ to 7‑fold increase in peak serum concentrations and approximately 4‑fold increase in AUC0‑72 hr (range 1- to 17-fold) with repeated dosing.  Serum concentrations in patients with RA have not been measured for periods of dosing that exceed 6 months.  The pharmacokinetic parameters in patients with PsO were similar to those seen in patients with RA.

In another study, serum concentration profiles at steady state were comparable among patients with RA treated with 50 mg Enbrel once weekly and those treated with 25 mg Enbrel twice weekly.  The mean (± standard deviation) Cmax, Cmin, and partial AUC were 2.4 ± 1.5 mcg/mL, 1.2 ± 0.7 mcg/mL, and 297 ± 166 mcg•h/mL, respectively, for patients treated with 50 mg Enbrel once weekly (N = 21); and 2.6 ± 1.2 mcg/mL, 1.4 ± 0.7 mcg/mL, and 316 ± 135 mcg•h/mL for patients treated with 25 mg Enbrel twice weekly (N = 16).

Patients with JIA (ages 4 to 17 years) were administered 0.4 mg/kg of Enbrel twice weekly (up to a maximum dose of 50 mg per week) for up to 18 weeks.  The mean serum concentration after repeated SC dosing was 2.1 mcg/mL, with a range of 0.7 to 4.3 mcg/mL.  Limited data suggest that the clearance of etanercept is reduced slightly in children ages 4 to 8 years.  Population pharmacokinetic analyses predict that the pharmacokinetic differences between the regimens of 0.4 mg/kg twice weekly and 0.8 mg/kg once weekly in JIA patients are of the same magnitude as the differences observed between twice weekly and weekly regimens in adult RA patients. 

In clinical studies with Enbrel, pharmacokinetic parameters were not different between men and women and did not vary with age in adult patients.  The pharmacokinetics of etanercept were unaltered by concomitant MTX in RA patients.  No formal pharmacokinetic studies have been conducted to examine the effects of renal or hepatic impairment on etanercept disposition.

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Long-term animal studies have not been conducted to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of etanercept or its effect on fertility. Mutagenesis studies were conducted in vitro and in vivo, and no evidence of mutagenic activity was observed.

14 CLINICAL STUDIES

14.1 Adult Rheumatoid Arthritis

The safety and efficacy of Enbrel were assessed in four randomized, double-blind, controlled studies. The results of all four trials were expressed in percentage of patients with improvement in RA using ACR response criteria.

Study I evaluated 234 patients with active RA who were ≥ 18 years old, had failed therapy with at least one but no more than four disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) (eg, hydroxychloroquine, oral or injectable gold, MTX, azathioprine, D-penicillamine, sulfasalazine), and had ≥ 12 tender joints, ≥ 10 swollen joints, and either erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) ≥ 28 mm/hr, C-reactive protein (CRP) > 2.0 mg/dL, or morning stiffness for ≥ 45 minutes. Doses of 10 mg or 25 mg Enbrel or placebo were administered SC twice a week for 6 consecutive months.

Study II evaluated 89 patients and had similar inclusion criteria to Study I except that patients in Study II had additionally received MTX for at least 6 months with a stable dose (12.5 to 25 mg/week) for at least 4 weeks and they had at least 6 tender or painful joints. Patients in Study II received a dose of 25 mg Enbrel or placebo SC twice a week for 6 months in addition to their stable MTX dose.

Study III compared the efficacy of Enbrel to MTX in patients with active RA. This study evaluated 632 patients who were ≥ 18 years old with early (≤ 3 years disease duration) active RA, had never received treatment with MTX, and had ≥ 12 tender joints, ≥ 10 swollen joints, and either ESR ≥ 28 mm/hr, CRP > 2.0 mg/dL, or morning stiffness for ≥ 45 minutes. Doses of 10 mg or 25 mg Enbrel were administered SC twice a week for 12 consecutive months. The study was unblinded after all patients had completed at least 12 months (and a median of 17.3 months) of therapy. The majority of patients remained in the study on the treatment to which they were randomized through 2 years, after which they entered an extension study and received open-label 25 mg Enbrel. MTX tablets (escalated from 7.5 mg/week to a maximum of 20 mg/week over the first 8 weeks of the trial) or placebo tablets were given once a week on the same day as the injection of placebo or Enbrel doses, respectively.

Study IV evaluated 682 adult patients with active RA of 6 months to 20 years duration (mean of 7 years) who had an inadequate response to at least one DMARD other than MTX. Forty-three percent of patients had previously received MTX for a mean of 2 years prior to the trial at a mean dose of 12.9 mg. Patients were excluded from this study if MTX had been discontinued for lack of efficacy or for safety considerations. The patient baseline characteristics were similar to those of patients in Study I. Patients were randomized to MTX alone (7.5 to 20 mg weekly, dose escalated as described for Study III; median dose 20 mg), Enbrel alone (25 mg twice weekly), or the combination of Enbrel and MTX initiated concurrently (at the same doses as above). The study evaluated ACR response, Sharp radiographic score, and safety.

Clinical Response
A higher percentage of patients treated with Enbrel and Enbrel in combination with MTX achieved ACR 20, ACR 50, and ACR 70 responses and Major Clinical Responses than in the comparison groups. The results of Studies I, II, and III are summarized in Table 6. The results of Study IV are summarized in Table 7.

Table 6. ACR Responses in Placebo- and Active-Controlled Trials (Percent of Patients)
     Placebo Controlled   Active Controlled
     Study I   Study II   Study III
     Placebo   Enbrel 25 mg Enbrel SC twice weekly   MTX/Placebo   MTX/Enbrel 25 mg Enbrel SC twice weekly   MTX   Enbrel 25 mg Enbrel SC twice weekly
  Response   N = 80   N = 78   N = 30   N = 59   N = 217   N = 207
   ACR 20
   Month 3   23%   62% p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo   33%   66% p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo   56%   62%
   Month 6   11%   59% p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo   27%   71% p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo   58%   65%
   Month 12   NA   NA   NA   NA   65%   72%
   ACR 50
   Month 3   8%   41% p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo   0%   42% p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo   24%   29%
   Month 6   5%   40% p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo   3%   39% p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo   32%   40%
   Month 12   NA   NA   NA   NA   43%   49%
  ACR 70
   Month 3   4%   15% p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo   0%   15% p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo   7%   13% p < 0.05, Enbrel vs MTX
   Month 6   1%   15% p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo   0%   15% p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo   14%   21% p < 0.05, Enbrel vs MTX
   Month 12   NA   NA   NA   NA   22%   25%
Table 7. Study IV Clinical Efficacy Results: Comparison of MTX vs Enbrel vs Enbrel in Combination With MTX in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis of 6 Months to 20 Years Duration (Percent of Patients)
  Endpoint   MTX
(N = 228)
  Enbrel
(N = 223)
  Enbrel/MTX
(N = 231)
   ACR N Values are medians.,ACR N is the percent improvement based on the same core variables used in defining ACR 20, ACR 50, and ACR 70.
  Month 12   40%   47%   63% p < 0.05 for comparisons of Enbrel/MTX vs Enbrel alone or MTX alone.
   ACR 20
  Month 12   59%   66%   75% p < 0.05 for comparisons of Enbrel/MTX vs Enbrel alone or MTX alone.
  ACR 50
  Month 12   36%   43%   63% p < 0.05 for comparisons of Enbrel/MTX vs Enbrel alone or MTX alone.
  ACR 70
  Month 12   17%   22%   40% p < 0.05 for comparisons of Enbrel/MTX vs Enbrel alone or MTX alone.
  Major Clinical ResponseMajor clinical response is achieving an ACR 70 response for a continuous 6-month period.   6%   10%   24% p < 0.05 for comparisons of Enbrel/MTX vs Enbrel alone or MTX alone.

The time course for ACR 20 response rates for patients receiving placebo or 25 mg Enbrel in Studies I and II is summarized in Figure 1. The time course of responses to Enbrel in Study III was similar.

ENBREL
Figure 1: Time Course of ACR 20 Responses

Among patients receiving Enbrel, the clinical responses generally appeared within 1 to 2 weeks after initiation of therapy and nearly always occurred by 3 months.  A dose response was seen in Studies I and III: 25 mg Enbrel was more effective than 10 mg (10 mg was not evaluated in Study II).  Enbrel was significantly better than placebo in all components of the ACR criteria as well as other measures of RA disease activity not included in the ACR response criteria, such as morning stiffness.

In Study III, ACR response rates and improvement in all the individual ACR response criteria were maintained through 24 months of Enbrel therapy.  Over the 2‑year study, 23% of Enbrel patients achieved a major clinical response, defined as maintenance of an ACR 70 response over a 6‑month period.

The results of the components of the ACR response criteria for Study I are shown in Table 8.  Similar results were observed for Enbrel‑treated patients in Studies II and III.

Table 8. Components of ACR Response in Study I
     Placebo
N = 80
   Enbrel  25 mg Enbrel SC twice weekly.
N = 78
  Parameter (median)   Baseline   3 Months   Baseline   3 Months Results at 6 months showed similar improvement.
  Number of tender joints Scale 0-71.   34.0   29.5   31.2   10.0 p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo, based on mean percent change from baseline.
  Number of swollen joints Scale 0-68.   24.0   22.0   23.5   12.6 p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo, based on mean percent change from baseline.
  Physician global assessment Visual analog scale: 0 = best; 10 = worst.   7.0   6.5   7.0   3.0 p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo, based on mean percent change from baseline.
  Patient global assessment Visual analog scale: 0 = best; 10 = worst.   7.0   7.0   7.0   3.0 p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo, based on mean percent change from baseline.
  Pain Visual analog scale: 0 = best; 10 = worst.   6.9   6.6   6.9   2.4 p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo, based on mean percent change from baseline.
  Disability index Health Assessment Questionnaire: 0 = best; 3 = worst; includes eight categories: dressing and grooming, arising, eating, walking, hygiene, reach, grip, and activities.   1.7   1.8   1.6   1.0 p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo, based on mean percent change from baseline.
  ESR (mm/hr)   31.0   32.0   28.0   15.5 p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo, based on mean percent change from baseline.
  CRP (mg/dL)   2.8   3.9   3.5   0.9 p < 0.01, Enbrel vs placebo, based on mean percent change from baseline.

After discontinuation of Enbrel, symptoms of arthritis generally returned within a month.  Reintroduction of treatment with Enbrel after discontinuations of up to 18 months resulted in the same magnitudes of response as in patients who received Enbrel without interruption of therapy, based on results of open‑label studies.

Continued durable responses were seen for over 60 months in open‑label extension treatment trials when patients received Enbrel without interruption.  A substantial number of patients who initially received concomitant MTX or corticosteroids were able to reduce their doses or discontinue these concomitant therapies while maintaining their clinical responses.

Physical Function Response
In Studies I, II, and III, physical function and disability were assessed using the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ).  Additionally, in Study III, patients were administered the SF‑36 Health Survey.  In Studies I and II, patients treated with 25 mg Enbrel twice weekly showed greater improvement from baseline in the HAQ score beginning in month 1 through month 6 in comparison to placebo (p < 0.001) for the HAQ disability domain (where 0 = none and 3 = severe).  In Study I, the mean improvement in the HAQ score from baseline to month 6 was 0.6 (from 1.6 to 1.0) for the 25 mg Enbrel group and 0 (from 1.7 to 1.7) for the placebo group.  In Study II, the mean improvement from baseline to month 6 was 0.6 (from 1.5 to 0.9) for the Enbrel/MTX group and 0.2 (from 1.3 to 1.2) for the placebo/MTX group.  In Study III, the mean improvement in the HAQ score from baseline to month 6 was 0.7 (from 1.5 to 0.7) for 25 mg Enbrel twice weekly.  All subdomains of the HAQ in Studies I and III were improved in patients treated with Enbrel.

In Study III, patients treated with 25 mg Enbrel twice weekly showed greater improvement from baseline in SF‑36 physical component summary score compared to Enbrel 10 mg twice weekly and no worsening in the SF‑36 mental component summary score.  In open‑label Enbrel studies, improvements in physical function and disability measures have been maintained for up to 4 years.

In Study IV, median HAQ scores improved from baseline levels of 1.8, 1.8, and 1.8 to 1.1, 1.0, and 0.6 at 12 months in the MTX, Enbrel, and Enbrel/MTX combination treatment groups, respectively (combination versus both MTX and Enbrel, p < 0.01).  Twenty-nine percent of patients in the MTX alone treatment group had an improvement of HAQ of at least 1 unit versus 40% and 51% in the Enbrel alone and the Enbrel/MTX combination treatment groups, respectively.

Radiographic Response
In Study III, structural joint damage was assessed radiographically and expressed as change in Total Sharp Score (TSS) and its components, the erosion score and joint space narrowing (JSN) score.  Radiographs of hands/wrists and forefeet were obtained at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months and scored by readers who were unaware of treatment group.  The results are shown in Table 9.  A significant difference for change in erosion score was observed at 6 months and maintained at 12 months.

Table 9. Mean Radiographic Change Over 6 and 12 Months in Study III
     MTX   25 mg Enbrel   

MTX/Enbrel

(95% Confidence Interval 95% confidence intervals for the differences in change scores between MTX and Enbrel. )
  P Value
  12 Months   Total Sharp Score   1.59   1.00   0.59 (-0.12, 1.30)   0.1
  Erosion Score   1.03   0.47   0.56 (0.11, 1.00)   0.002
  JSN Score   0.56   0.52   0.04 (-0.39, 0.46)   0.5
  6 Months   Total Sharp Score   1.06   0.57   0.49 (0.06, 0.91)   0.001
  Erosion Score   0.68   0.30   0.38 (0.09, 0.66)   0.001
  JSN Score   0.38   0.27   0.11 (-0.14, 0.35)   0.6

Patients continued on the therapy to which they were randomized for the second year of Study III. Seventy-two percent of patients had x-rays obtained at 24 months. Compared to the patients in the MTX group, greater inhibition of progression in TSS and erosion score was seen in the 25 mg Enbrel group, and, in addition, less progression was noted in the JSN score.

In the open-label extension of Study III, 48% of the original patients treated with 25 mg Enbrel have been evaluated radiographically at 5 years. Patients had continued inhibition of structural damage, as measured by the TSS, and 55% of them had no progression of structural damage. Patients originally treated with MTX had further reduction in radiographic progression once they began treatment with Enbrel.

In Study IV, less radiographic progression (TSS) was observed with Enbrel in combination with MTX compared with Enbrel alone or MTX alone at month 12 (Table 10). In the MTX treatment group, 55% of patients experienced no radiographic progression (TSS change ≤ 0.0) at 12 months compared to 63% and 76% in the Enbrel alone and the Enbrel/MTX combination treatment groups, respectively.

Table 10. Mean Radiographic Change in Study IV at 12 Months (95% Confidence Interval)
     MTX
(N = 212) Analyzed radiographic ITT population.
  Enbrel
(N = 212) Analyzed radiographic ITT population.
  Enbrel/MTX
(N = 218) Analyzed radiographic ITT population.
  Total Sharp Score (TSS)   2.80
(1.08, 4.51)
  0.52 p < 0.05 for comparison of Enbrel vs MTX.
(-0.10, 1.15)
  -0.54 p < 0.05 for comparison of Enbrel/MTX vs MTX. , p < 0.05 for comparison of Enbrel/MTX vs Enbrel.
(-1.00, -0.07)
  Erosion Score (ES)   1.68
(0.61, 2.74)
  0.21 p < 0.05 for comparison of Enbrel vs MTX.
(-0.20, 0.61)
  -0.30 p < 0.05 for comparison of Enbrel/MTX vs MTX.
(-0.65, 0.04)
  Joint Space Narrowing (JSN) Score   1.12
(0.34, 1.90)
  0.32
(0.00, 0.63)
  -0.23 p < 0.05 for comparison of Enbrel/MTX vs MTX. , p < 0.05 for comparison of Enbrel/MTX vs Enbrel.
(-0.45, -0.02)

Once Weekly Dosing
The safety and efficacy of 50 mg Enbrel (two 25 mg SC injections) administered once weekly were evaluated in a double‑blind, placebo‑controlled study of 420 patients with active RA.  Fifty‑three patients received placebo, 214 patients received 50 mg Enbrel once weekly, and 153 patients received 25 mg Enbrel twice weekly.  The safety and efficacy profiles of the two Enbrel treatment groups were similar.

14.2 Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)

The safety and efficacy of Enbrel were assessed in a 2-part study in 69 children with polyarticular JIA who had a variety of JIA onset types. Patients ages 2 to 17 years with moderately to severely active polyarticular JIA refractory to or intolerant of MTX were enrolled; patients remained on a stable dose of a single nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug and/or prednisone (≤ 0.2 mg/kg/day or 10 mg maximum). In part 1, all patients received 0.4 mg/kg (maximum 25 mg per dose) Enbrel SC twice weekly. In part 2, patients with a clinical response at day 90 were randomized to remain on Enbrel or receive placebo for 4 months and assessed for disease flare. Responses were measured using the JIA Definition of Improvement (DOI), defined as ≥ 30% improvement in at least three of six and ≥ 30% worsening in no more than one of the six JIA core set criteria, including active joint count, limitation of motion, physician and patient/parent global assessments, functional assessment, and ESR. Disease flare was defined as a ≥ 30% worsening in three of the six JIA core set criteria and ≥ 30% improvement in not more than one of the six JIA core set criteria and a minimum of two active joints.

In part 1 of the study, 51 of 69 (74%) patients demonstrated a clinical response and entered part 2. In part 2, 6 of 25 (24%) patients remaining on Enbrel experienced a disease flare compared to 20 of 26 (77%) patients receiving placebo (p = 0.007). From the start of part 2, the median time to flare was ≥ 116 days for patients who received Enbrel and 28 days for patients who received placebo. Each component of the JIA core set criteria worsened in the arm that received placebo and remained stable or improved in the arm that continued on Enbrel. The data suggested the possibility of a higher flare rate among those patients with a higher baseline ESR. Of patients who demonstrated a clinical response at 90 days and entered part 2 of the study, some of the patients remaining on Enbrel continued to improve from month 3 through month 7, while those who received placebo did not improve.

The majority of JIA patients who developed a disease flare in part 2 and reintroduced Enbrel treatment up to 4 months after discontinuation re-responded to Enbrel therapy in open-label studies. Most of the responding patients who continued Enbrel therapy without interruption have maintained responses for up to 48 months.

Studies have not been done in patients with polyarticular JIA to assess the effects of continued Enbrel therapy in patients who do not respond within 3 months of initiating Enbrel therapy, or to assess the combination of Enbrel with MTX.

14.3 Psoriatic Arthritis

The safety and efficacy of Enbrel were assessed in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 205 patients with PsA. Patients were between 18 and 70 years of age and had active PsA (≥ 3 swollen joints and ≥ 3 tender joints) in one or more of the following forms: (1) distal interphalangeal (DIP) involvement (N = 104); (2) polyarticular arthritis (absence of rheumatoid nodules and presence of psoriasis; N = 173); (3) arthritis mutilans (N = 3); (4) asymmetric psoriatic arthritis (N = 81); or (5) ankylosing spondylitis-like (N = 7). Patients also had plaque psoriasis with a qualifying target lesion ≥ 2 cm in diameter. Patients on MTX therapy at enrollment (stable for ≥ 2 months) could continue at a stable dose of ≤ 25 mg/week MTX. Doses of 25 mg Enbrel or placebo were administered SC twice a week during the initial 6-month double-blind period of the study. Patients continued to receive blinded therapy in an up to 6-month maintenance period until all patients had completed the controlled period. Following this, patients received open-label 25 mg Enbrel twice a week in a 12-month extension period.

Compared to placebo, treatment with Enbrel resulted in significant improvements in measures of disease activity (Table 11).

Table 11. Components of Disease Activity in Psoriatic Arthritis
     

Placebo

N = 104
  

Enbrelp < 0.001 for all comparisons between Enbrel and placebo at 6 months.

N = 101
  Parameter (median)   Baseline   6 Months   Baseline   6 Months
  Number of tender joints Scale 0-78.   17.0   13.0   18.0   5.0
  Number of swollen jointsScale 0-76.   12.5   9.5   13.0   5.0
  Physician global assessmentLikert scale: 0 = best; 5 = worst.   3.0   3.0   3.0   1.0
  Patient global assessmentLikert scale: 0 = best; 5 = worst.   3.0   3.0   3.0   1.0
  Morning stiffness (minutes)   60   60   60   15
  PainLikert scale: 0 = best; 5 = worst.   3.0   3.0   3.0   1.0
  Disability indexHealth Assessment Questionnaire: 0 = best; 3 = worst; includes eight categories: dressing and grooming, arising, eating, walking, hygiene, reach, grip, and activities.   1.0   0.9   1.1   0.3
  CRP (mg/dL)Normal range: 0-0.79 mg/dL.   1.1   1.1   1.6   0.2

Among patients with PsA who received Enbrel, the clinical responses were apparent at the time of the first visit (4 weeks) and were maintained through 6 months of therapy. Responses were similar in patients who were or were not receiving concomitant MTX therapy at baseline. At 6 months, the ACR 20/50/70 responses were achieved by 50%, 37%, and 9%, respectively, of patients receiving Enbrel, compared to 13%, 4%, and 1%, respectively, of patients receiving placebo. Similar responses were seen in patients with each of the subtypes of PsA, although few patients were enrolled with the arthritis mutilans and ankylosing spondylitis-like subtypes. The results of this study were similar to those seen in an earlier single-center, randomized, placebo-controlled study of 60 patients with PsA.

The skin lesions of psoriasis were also improved with Enbrel, relative to placebo, as measured by percentages of patients achieving improvements in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI). Responses increased over time, and at 6 months, the proportions of patients achieving a 50% or 75% improvement in the PASI were 47% and 23%, respectively, in the Enbrel group (N = 66), compared to 18% and 3%, respectively, in the placebo group (N = 62). Responses were similar in patients who were or were not receiving concomitant MTX therapy at baseline.

Radiographic Response
Radiographic changes were also assessed in the PsA study. Radiographs of hands and wrists were obtained at baseline and months 6, 12, and 24. A modified Total Sharp Score (TSS), which included distal interphalangeal joints (ie, not identical to the modified TSS used for RA) was used by readers blinded to treatment group to assess the radiographs. Some radiographic features specific to PsA (eg, pencil-and-cup deformity, joint space widening, gross osteolysis, and ankylosis) were included in the scoring system, but others (eg, phalangeal tuft resorption, juxta-articular and shaft periostitis) were not.

Most patients showed little or no change in the modified TSS during this 24-month study (median change of 0 in both patients who initially received Enbrel or placebo). More placebo-treated patients experienced larger magnitudes of radiographic worsening (increased TSS) compared to Enbrel treatment during the controlled period of the study. At 12 months, in an exploratory analysis, 12% (12 of 104) of placebo patients compared to none of the 101 Enbrel-treated patients had increases of 3 points or more in TSS. Inhibition of radiographic progression was maintained in patients who continued on Enbrel during the second year. Of the patients with 1-year and 2-year x-rays, 3% (2 of 71) had increases of 3 points or more in TSS at 1 and 2 years.

Physical Function Response
In the PsA study, physical function and disability were assessed using the HAQ Disability Index (HAQ-DI) and the SF-36 Health Survey. Patients treated with 25 mg Enbrel twice weekly showed greater improvement from baseline in the HAQ-DI score (mean decreases of 54% at both months 3 and 6) in comparison to placebo (mean decreases of 6% at both months 3 and 6) (p < 0.001). At months 3 and 6, patients treated with Enbrel showed greater improvement from baseline in the SF-36 physical component summary score compared to patients treated with placebo, and no worsening in the SF-36 mental component summary score. Improvements in physical function and disability measures were maintained for up to 2 years through the open-label portion of the study.

14.4 Ankylosing Spondylitis

The safety and efficacy of Enbrel were assessed in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 277 patients with active AS. Patients were between 18 and 70 years of age and had AS as defined by the modified New York Criteria for Ankylosing Spondylitis. Patients were to have evidence of active disease based on values of ≥ 30 on a 0-100 unit Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for the average of morning stiffness duration and intensity, and two of the following three other parameters: a) patient global assessment, b) average of nocturnal and total back pain, and c) the average score on the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI). Patients with complete ankylosis of the spine were excluded from study participation. Patients taking hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, methotrexate, or prednisone (≤ 10 mg/day) could continue these drugs at stable doses for the duration of the study. Doses of 25 mg Enbrel or placebo were administered SC twice a week for 6 months.

The primary measure of efficacy was a 20% improvement in the Assessment in Ankylosing Spondylitis (ASAS) response criteria. Compared to placebo, treatment with Enbrel resulted in improvements in the ASAS and other measures of disease activity (Figure 2 and Table 12).

ENBREL
Figure 2. ASAS 20 Responses in Ankylosing Spondylitis

At 12 weeks, the ASAS 20/50/70 responses were achieved by 60%, 45%, and 29%, respectively, of patients receiving Enbrel, compared to 27%, 13%, and 7%, respectively, of patients receiving placebo (p ≤ 0.0001, Enbrel vs placebo). Similar responses were seen at week 24. Responses were similar between those patients receiving concomitant therapies at baseline and those who were not. The results of this study were similar to those seen in a single-center, randomized, placebo-controlled study of 40 patients and a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled study of 84 patients with AS.

Table 12. Components of Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity
     

Placebo

N = 139
  

Enbrelp < 0.0015 for all comparisons between Enbrel and placebo at 6 months. P values for continuous endpoints were based on percent change from baseline.

N = 138
  Median values at time points   Baseline   6 Months   Baseline   6 Months
  ASAS response criteria
      Patient global assessmentMeasured on a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) with 0 = “none” and 100 = “severe.”   63   56   63   36
      Back painAverage of total nocturnal and back pain scores, measured on a VAS with 0 = “no pain” and 100 = “most severe pain.”   62   56   60   34
      BASFIBath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI), average of 10 questions.   56   55   52   36
      InflammationInflammation represented by the average of the last 2 questions on the 6-question Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI).   64   57   61   33
  Acute phase reactants
      CRP (mg/dL)C-reactive protein (CRP) normal range: 0-1.0 mg/dL.   2.0   1.9   1.9   0.6
  Spinal mobility (cm):
      Modified Schober’s test   3.0   2.9   3.1   3.3
      Chest expansion   3.2   3.0   3.3   3.9
      Occiput-to-wall measurement   5.3   6.0   5.6   4.5

14.5 Plaque Psoriasis

The safety and efficacy of Enbrel were assessed in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies in adults with chronic stable PsO involving ≥ 10% of the body surface area, a minimum Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score of 10 and who had received or were candidates for systemic antipsoriatic therapy or phototherapy. Patients with guttate, erythrodermic, or pustular psoriasis and patients with severe infections within 4 weeks of screening were excluded from study. No concomitant major antipsoriatic therapies were allowed during the study.

Study I evaluated 672 patients who received placebo or Enbrel SC at doses of 25 mg once a week, 25 mg twice a week, or 50 mg twice a week for 3 months. After 3 months, patients continued on blinded treatments for an additional 3 months during which time patients originally randomized to placebo began treatment with blinded Enbrel at 25 mg twice weekly (designated as placebo/Enbrel in Table 13); patients originally randomized to Enbrel continued on the originally randomized dose (designated as Enbrel/Enbrel groups in Table 13).

Study II evaluated 611 patients who received placebo or Enbrel SC at doses of 25 mg or 50 mg twice a week for 3 months. After 3 months of randomized, blinded treatment, patients in all three arms began receiving open-label Enbrel at 25 mg twice weekly for 9 additional months.

Response to treatment in both studies was assessed after 3 months of therapy and was defined as the proportion of patients who achieved a reduction in PASI score of at least 75% from baseline. The PASI is a composite score that takes into consideration both the fraction of body surface area affected and the nature and severity of psoriatic changes within the affected regions (induration, erythema and scaling).

Other evaluated outcomes included the proportion of patients who achieved a score of “clear” or “minimal” by the Static Physician Global Assessment (sPGA) and the proportion of patients with a reduction of PASI of at least 50% from baseline. The sPGA is a 6-category scale ranging from “5 = severe” to “0 = none” indicating the physician’s overall assessment of the PsO severity focusing on induration, erythema and scaling. Treatment success of “clear” or “minimal” consisted of none or minimal elevation in plaque, up to faint red coloration in erythema and none or minimal fine scale over < 5% of the plaque.

Patients in all treatment groups and in both studies had a median baseline PASI score ranging from 15 to 17, and the percentage of patients with baseline sPGA classifications ranged from 54% to 66% for moderate, 17% to 26% for marked and 1% to 5% for severe. Across all treatment groups, the percentage of patients who previously received systemic therapy for PsO ranged from 61% to 65% in Study I and 71% to 75% in Study II, and those who previously received phototherapy ranged from 44% to 50% in Study I and 72% to 73% in Study II.

More patients randomized to Enbrel than placebo achieved at least a 75% reduction from baseline PASI score (PASI 75) with a dose response relationship across doses of 25 mg once a week, 25 mg twice a week, and 50 mg twice a week (Tables 13 and 14). The individual components of the PASI (induration, erythema and scaling) contributed comparably to the overall treatment-associated improvement in PASI.

Table 13. Study I Outcomes at 3 and 6 Months
        Enbrel/Enbrel
     Placebo/Enbrel
25 mg BIW
(N = 168)
 25 mg QW

(N = 169)

  25 mg BIW

(N = 167)

 50 mg BIW

(N = 168)

  3 Months
  PASI 75 n (%)   6 (4%)   23 (14%)p = 0.001 compared with placebo.   53 (32%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.   79 (47%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.
   Difference 
    (95% CI)
     10% (4, 16)   28% (21, 36)   43% (35, 52)
  sPGA, “clear” or “minimal” n (%)   8 (5%)   36 (21%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.   53 (32%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.   79 (47%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.
    Difference 
    (95% CI)
     17% (10, 24)   27% (19, 35)   42% (34, 50)
  PASI 50 n (%)   24 (14%)   62 (37%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.   90 (54%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.   119 (71%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.
   Difference 
    (95% CI)
     22% (13, 31)    40% (30, 49)    57% (48, 65)
  6 Months
   PASI 75 n (%)   55 (33%)   36 (21%)   68 (41%)   90 (54%)
Table 14. Study II Outcomes at 3 Months
   Placebo
(N = 204)
  Enbrel

25 mg BIW
(N = 204)

50 mg BIW
(N = 203)
  PASI 75 n (%)   6 (3%)   66 (32%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.   94 (46%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.
      Difference (95% CI)      29% (23, 36)   43% (36, 51)
  sPGA,“clear” or “minimal” n (%)   7 (3%)   75 (37%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.   109 (54%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.
      Difference (95% CI)      34% (26, 41)   50% (43, 58)
  PASI 50 n (%)   18 (9%)   124 (61%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.   147 (72%)p < 0.0001 compared with placebo.
     Difference (95% CI)      52% (44, 60)   64% (56, 71)

Among PASI 75 achievers in both studies, the median time to PASI 50 and PASI 75 was approximately 1 month and approximately 2 months, respectively, after the start of therapy with either 25 or 50 mg twice a week.

In Study I, patients who achieved PASI 75 at month 6 were entered into a study drug withdrawal and retreatment period. Following withdrawal of study drug, these patients had a median duration of PASI 75 of between 1 and 2 months.

In Study I, among patients who were PASI 75 responders at 3 months, retreatment with their original blinded Enbrel dose after discontinuation of up to 5 months resulted in a similar proportion of responders as in the initial double-blind portion of the study.

In Study II, most patients initially randomized to 50 mg twice a week continued in the study after month 3 and had their Enbrel dose decreased to 25 mg twice a week. Of the 91 patients who were PASI 75 responders at month 3, 70 (77%) maintained their PASI 75 response at month 6.

15 REFERENCES

  • National Cancer Institute. Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Database (SEER) Program. SEER Incidence Crude Rates, 13 Registries, 1992-2002.

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

Administration of one 50 mg Enbrel prefilled syringe or one Enbrel SureClick autoinjector provides a dose equivalent to two 25 mg Enbrel prefilled syringes or two multiple-use vials of lyophilized Enbrel, when vials are reconstituted and administered as recommended.

16.1 Enbrel Single-use Prefilled Syringe and Enbrel Single-use Prefilled SureClick Autoinjector

Each Enbrel single-use prefilled syringe and Enbrel single-use prefilled SureClick autoinjector contains 50 mg/mL of etanercept in a single-dose syringe with a 27-gauge, ½-inch needle.

  50 mg single-use prefilled syringe   Carton of 4   NDC 58406-435-04
  50 mg single-use prefilled SureClick autoinjector   Carton of 4   NDC 58406-445-04
  25 mg single-use prefilled syringe   Carton of 4   NDC 58406-455-04

Enbrel should be refrigerated at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).  Do not use Enbrel beyond the expiration date stamped on the carton or barrel label.  DO NOT SHAKE.  Store Enbrel in the original carton to protect from light or physical damage. 

For convenience, storage of individual syringes or autoinjectors at room temperature for a maximum single period of 14 days is permissible, with protection from light and sources of heat.  Once a syringe or autoinjector has been stored at room temperature, it should not be placed back into the refrigerator.  If not used within 14 days at room temperature, the syringe or autoinjector should be discarded.  Do not store Enbrel in extreme heat or cold.  DO NOT FREEZE.  Keep out of the reach of children.

16.2 Enbrel Multiple-use Vial (Recommended for Weight-based Dosing)

Enbrel multiple-use vial is supplied in a carton containing four dose trays. Each dose tray contains one 25 mg vial of etanercept, one diluent syringe (1 mL Sterile Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP, containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol), one 27-gauge ½-inch needle, one vial adapter, and one plunger. Each carton contains four “Mixing Date:” stickers.

  25 mg multiple-use vial   Carton of 4   NDC 58406-425-34

Enbrel should be refrigerated at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).  Do not use Enbrel beyond the expiration date stamped on the dose tray. DO NOT SHAKE.  Store Enbrel in the original carton to protect from light or physical damage.  

For convenience, storage of an individual dose tray containing Enbrel multi-use vial and diluent syringe at room temperature for a maximum single period of 14 days is permissible, with protection from light, sources of heat, and humidity.  Once the dose tray has been stored at room temperature, it should not be placed back into the refrigerator.  If not used within 14 days at room temperature, the dose tray should be discarded.  Once a vial has been reconstituted, the solution must be used immediately or may be refrigerated for up to14 days.  Do not store Enbrel in extreme heat or cold.  DO NOT FREEZE.  Keep out of the reach of children.

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

See Medication Guide

Patients or their caregivers should be provided the Enbrel “Medication Guide” and provided an opportunity to read it and ask questions prior to initiation of therapy. The healthcare provider should ask the patient questions to determine any risk factors for treatment. Patients developing signs and symptoms of infection should seek medical evaluation immediately.

17.1 Patient Counseling

Patients should be advised of the potential benefits and risks of Enbrel. Physicians should instruct their patients to read the Medication Guide before starting Enbrel therapy and to reread each time the prescription is renewed.

Infections
Inform patients that Enbrel may lower the ability of their immune system to fight infections. Advise patients of the importance of contacting their doctor if they develop any symptoms of infection, tuberculosis or reactivation of hepatitis B virus infections.

Other Medical Conditions
Advise patients to report any signs of new or worsening medical conditions, such as central nervous system demyelinating disorders, heart failure or autoimmune disorders, such as lupus-like syndrome or autoimmune hepatitis. Counsel about the risk of lymphoma and other malignancies while receiving Enbrel. Advise patients to report any symptoms suggestive of a pancytopenia, such as bruising, bleeding, persistent fever or pallor.

Allergic Reactions
Advise patients to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any symptoms of severe allergic reactions.  Advise latex-sensitive patients that the following components contain dry natural rubber (a derivative of latex) that may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to latex: the needle cover of the prefilled syringe and the needle cover within the needle cap of the SureClick autoinjector.

17.2 Administration of Enbrel

If a patient or caregiver is to administer Enbrel, the patient or caregiver should be instructed in injection techniques and how to measure and administer the correct dose [see the Enbrel (etanercept) “Instructions for Use” insert]. The first injection should be performed under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The patient’s or caregiver’s ability to inject subcutaneously should be assessed. Patients and caregivers should be instructed in the technique, as well as proper syringe and needle disposal, and be cautioned against reuse of needles and syringes.

A puncture-resistant container for disposal of needles, syringes and autoinjectors should be used. If the product is intended for multiple use, additional syringes, needles and alcohol swabs will be required.

Patients can be advised to call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) or visit www.enbrel.com for more information about Enbrel.

[Amgen Logo]

Enbrel® (etanercept)

Manufactured by:
Immunex Corporation
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320-1799
U.S. License Number 1132
Marketed by Amgen Inc.

Patent: http://pat.amgen.com/enbrel/

© 1998-2013 Immunex Corporation. All rights reserved.

1XXXXXX - v53
PMV53

Enbrel® (en-brel)
(etanercept)

Read the Medication Guide that comes with Enbrel before you start using it and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This Medication Guide does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your medical condition or treatment. It is important to remain under your doctor’s care while using Enbrel.

Enbrel is a prescription medicine called a Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) blocker that affects your immune system.

What is the most important information I should know about Enbrel?

Enbrel may cause serious side effects, including:

1. Risk of Infection
2. Risk of Cancer

1. Risk of infection

Enbrel can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. Some people have serious infections while taking Enbrel. These infections include tuberculosis (TB), and infections caused by viruses, fungi, or bacteria that spread throughout their body. Some people have died from these infections.

  • Your doctor should test you for TB before starting Enbrel.
  • Your doctor should monitor you closely for symptoms of TB during treatment with Enbrel even if you tested negative for TB.
  • Your doctor should check you for symptoms of any type of infection before, during, and after your treatment with Enbrel.

You should not start taking Enbrel if you have any kind of infection unless your doctor says it is okay.

2. Risk of cancer

  • There have been cases of unusual cancers in children and teenage patients who started using TNF-blocking agents at less than 18 years of age.
  • For children, teenagers, and adults taking TNF-blocker medicines, including Enbrel, the chances of getting lymphoma or other cancers may increase.
  • People with rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, especially those with very active disease, may be more likely to get lymphoma.

Before starting Enbrel, be sure to talk to your doctor:

Enbrel may not be right for you. Before starting Enbrel, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, including:

Infections – tell your doctor if you:

  • have an infection.  (See “What is the most important information I should know about Enbrel?”)
  • are being treated for an infection.
  • think you have an infection.
  • have symptoms of an infection such as fever, sweats or chills, cough or flu-like symptoms, shortness of breath, blood in your phlegm, weight loss, muscle aches, warm, red or painful areas on your skin, sores on your body, diarrhea or stomach pain, burning when you urinate or urinating more often than normal, and feel very tired.
  • have any open cuts on your body.
  • get a lot of infections or have infections that keep coming back.
  • have diabetes, HIV, or a weak immune system. People with these conditions have a higher chance for infections.
  • have TB, or have been in close contact with someone with TB.
  • were born in, lived in, or traveled to countries where there is a risk for getting TB. Ask your doctor if you are not sure.
  • live, have lived in, or traveled to certain parts of the country (such as the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys, or the Southwest) where there is a greater risk for getting certain kinds of fungal infections (histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, blastomycosis). These infections may happen or become more severe if you use Enbrel. Ask your doctor if you do not know if you live or have lived in an area where these infections are common.
  • have or have had hepatitis B.

Also, BEFORE starting Enbrel, tell your doctor:

  • About all the medicines you take including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements including:
    • Orencia® (abatacept) or Kineret® (anakinra). You have a higher chance for serious infections when taking Enbrel with Orencia® or Kineret®.
    • Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan®). You may have a higher chance for getting certain cancers when taking Enbrel with cyclophosphamide.
    • Anti-diabetic Medicines. If you have diabetes and are taking medication to control your diabetes, your doctor may decide you need less anti-diabetic medicine while taking Enbrel.

Keep a list of all your medications with you to show your doctor and pharmacist each time you get a new medicine. Ask your doctor if you are not sure if your medicine is one listed above.

Other important medical information you should tell your doctor BEFORE starting Enbrel, includes if you:

  • have or had a nervous system problem such as multiple sclerosis or Guillain-Barré syndrome.
  • have or had heart failure.
  • are scheduled to have surgery.
  • have recently received or are scheduled to receive a vaccine.
    • All vaccines should be brought up-to-date before starting Enbrel.
    • People taking Enbrel should not receive live vaccines.
    • Ask your doctor if you are not sure if you received a live vaccine.
  • are allergic to rubber or latex.
    • The needle covers on the single-use prefilled syringes and the needle covers within the needle caps on the single-use prefilled SureClick® autoinjectors contain dry natural rubber.
  • have been around someone with varicella zoster (chicken pox).
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if Enbrel will harm your unborn baby. If you took Enbrel during pregnancy, talk to your doctor prior to administration of live vaccines to your infant.
    • If you become pregnant while taking Enbrel, you are encouraged to enroll in Amgen’s Pregnancy Surveillance Program.  You can enroll by calling 1-800-77-AMGEN (1-800-772-6436).
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Enbrel can pass into breast milk. You and your doctor should decide if you will take Enbrel or breastfeed. You should not do both.
    • If you choose to breastfeed while taking Enbrel, you are encouraged to enroll in Amgen’s Lactation Surveillance Program.  You can enroll by calling 1-800-77-AMGEN (1-800-772-6436).

See the section “What are the possible side effects of Enbrel?” below for more information.

What is Enbrel?

Enbrel is a prescription medicine called a Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) blocker.

Enbrel is used to treat:

  • moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Enbrel can be used alone or with a medicine called methotrexate.
  • psoriatic arthritis. Enbrel can be used alone or with methotrexate.
  • ankylosing spondylitis (AS).
  • chronic moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults ages 18 years and older.
  • moderately to severely active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in children ages 2 years and older.

You may continue to use other medicines that help treat your condition while taking Enbrel, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and prescription steroids, as recommended by your doctor.

Enbrel can help reduce joint damage and the signs and symptoms of the above mentioned diseases. People with these diseases have too much of a protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF), which is made by your immune system. Enbrel can reduce the effect of TNF in the body and block the damage that too much TNF can cause, but it can also lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. See “What is the most important information I should know about Enbrel?” and “What are the possible side effects of Enbrel?”

Who should not use Enbrel?

Do not use Enbrel if you:

  • have an infection that has spread through your body (sepsis).

How should I use Enbrel?

  • Enbrel is given as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous or SC).
  • If your doctor decides that you or a caregiver can give the injections of Enbrel at home, you or your caregiver should receive training on the right way to prepare and inject Enbrel. Do not try to inject Enbrel until you have been shown the right way by your doctor or nurse.
  • Enbrel is available in the forms listed below. Your doctor will prescribe the type that is best for you.
    • Single-use Prefilled Syringe
    • Single-use Prefilled SureClick Autoinjector
    • Multiple-use Vial
  • See the detailed “Instructions for Use” with this Medication Guide for instructions about the right way to store, prepare, and give your Enbrel injections at home.
  • Your doctor will tell you how often you should use Enbrel. Do not miss any doses of Enbrel. If you forget to use Enbrel, inject your dose as soon as you remember. Then, take your next dose at your regular(ly) scheduled time. In case you are not sure when to inject Enbrel, call your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use Enbrel more often than as directed by your doctor.
  • Your child’s dose of Enbrel depends on his or her weight. Your child’s doctor will tell you which form of Enbrel to use and how much to give your child.

What are the possible side effects of Enbrel?

See "What is the most important information I should know about Enbrel?"

Enbrel can cause serious side effects, including:

  • Infections. Enbrel can make you more likely to get infections or make any infection that you have worse. Call your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of an infection. See “Before starting Enbrel, be sure to talk to your doctor” for a list of symptoms of infection. 
  • Previous Hepatitis B infection.  If you have been previously infected with the hepatitis B virus (a virus that affects the liver), the virus can become active while you use Enbrel. Your doctor may do a blood test before you start treatment with Enbrel and while you use Enbrel.
  • Nervous system problems. Rarely, people who use TNF-blocker medicines have developed nervous system problems such as multiple sclerosis, seizures, or inflammation of the nerves of the eyes. Tell your doctor right away if you get any of these symptoms: numbness or tingling in any part of your body, vision changes, weakness in your arms and legs, and dizziness.
  • Blood problems. Low blood counts have been seen with other TNF-blocker medicines. Your body may not make enough of the blood cells that help fight infections or help stop bleeding. Symptoms include fever, bruising or bleeding very easily, or looking pale.
  • Heart failure including new heart failure or worsening of heart failure you already have.  New or worse heart failure can happen in people who use TNF-blocker medicines like Enbrel. If you have heart failure your condition should be watched closely while you take Enbrel. Call your doctor right away if you get new or worsening symptoms of heart failure while taking Enbrel, such as shortness of breath or swelling of your lower legs or feet.
  • Psoriasis. Some people using Enbrel developed new psoriasis or worsening of psoriasis they already had. Tell your doctor if you develop red scaly patches or raised bumps that may be filled with pus. Your doctor may decide to stop your treatment with Enbrel.
  • Allergic reactions. Allergic reactions can happen to people who use TNF-blocker medicines. Call your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of an allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include a severe rash, a swollen face, or trouble breathing.
  • Autoimmune reactions, including:
    • Lupus-like syndrome. Symptoms include a rash on your face and arms that gets worse in the sun. Tell your doctor if you have this symptom. Symptoms may go away when you stop using Enbrel.
    • Autoimmune hepatitis. Liver problems can happen in people who use TNF-blocker medicines, including Enbrel. These problems can lead to liver failure and death. Call your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms: feel very tired, skin or eyes look yellow, poor appetite or vomiting, pain on the right side of your stomach (abdomen).

Common side effects of Enbrel include:

  • Injection site reactions such as redness, swelling, itching, or pain. These symptoms usually go away within 3 to 5 days. If you have pain, redness, or swelling around the injection site that doesn’t go away or gets worse, call your doctor.
  • Upper respiratory infections (sinus infections).
  • Headache.

These are not all the side effects with Enbrel. Tell your doctor about any side effect that bothers you or does not go away.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How should I store Enbrel?

  • Store Enbrel in the refrigerator at 36° to 46°F (2° to 8°C).
  • If needed, you may store the Enbrel syringe, autoinjector, or the dose tray for the multi-use vial at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) for up to 14 days.

    • Once Enbrel has reached room temperature, do not put it back in the refrigerator.
  • Throw away Enbrel that has been stored at room temperature after 14 days.
  • Mixed Enbrel powder should be used right away or kept in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) for up to 14 days.
  • Do not store Enbrel in extreme heat or cold.  For example, avoid storing Enbrel in your vehicle’s glove box or trunk.
  • Do not freeze.
  • Do not shake.
  • Store Enbrel in the original carton to protect from light or physical damage.
  • Keep Enbrel and all medicines out of the reach of children.

General Information about Enbrel

Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes not mentioned in a Medication Guide. Do not use Enbrel for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give Enbrel to other people, even if they have the same condition. It may harm them.

This Medication Guide summarizes the most important information about Enbrel. If you would like more information, talk with your doctor. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist for information about Enbrel that was written for healthcare professionals. For more information, call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735).

What are the ingredients in Enbrel?

Single-use Prefilled Syringe and the Single-use Prefilled SureClick Autoinjector:

Active Ingredient: etanercept

Inactive Ingredients: sucrose, sodium chloride, L-arginine hydrochloride and sodium phosphate

Multiple-use Vial:

Active Ingredient: etanercept

Inactive Ingredients: mannitol, sucrose, tromethamine

This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

[Amgen Logo]

Manufactured by:

Immunex Corporation
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320-1799
Marketed by Amgen Inc. 

© 1998-2013 Immunex Corporation. All rights reserved.

1XXXXXX - v11
Revised: 11/2013
PMV11

Enbrel® (en-brel)
(etanercept)
Single-use Prefilled Syringe

How do I prepare and give an injection with Enbrel Single-use Prefilled Syringe?

There are 2 types of Enbrel single-use prefilled syringes:

  • The 50 mg single-use prefilled syringe that contains one 50 mg dose of Enbrel.
  • The 25 mg single-use prefilled syringe that contains one 25 mg dose of Enbrel.

Your doctor will tell you which one to use.

A 50 mg dose can be given as one injection using a 50 mg single-use prefilled syringe or as two injections using 25 mg single-use prefilled syringes. Your doctor will tell you whether the two injections with 25 mg single-use prefilled syringes should be given on the same day once a week or on two different days (3 or 4 days apart) in the same week.

Children must weigh at least 138 pounds to use the Enbrel 50 mg single-use prefilled syringe. Children who weigh less than 138 pounds should use a different form of Enbrel. The Enbrel 25 mg single-use prefilled syringe should NOT be used in pediatric patients weighing less than 68 pounds.

IMPORTANT: The needle cover on the single-use prefilled syringe is composed of dry natural rubber, which is made from latex. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to latex.

Storage of Enbrel

  • Enbrel should be refrigerated at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).  Store Enbrel in the original carton to protect from light or physical damage.
  • If needed, you may store your Enbrel prefilled syringe at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) for up to 14 days.
    • Once Enbrel has reached room temperature, do not put it back in the refrigerator.
  • Throw away Enbrel that has been stored at room temperature after 14 days.
  • Do NOT store Enbrel in extreme heat or cold.  For example, avoid storing Enbrel in your vehicle’s glove box or trunk.  Do NOT freeze.
  • Keep Enbrel and all medicines out of the reach of children.  If you have any questions about storage, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist or call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) for further instructions.

STEP 1: Setting Up for an Injection

  • Select a clean, well-lit, flat work surface, such as a table.
  • Take the Enbrel carton containing the prefilled syringes out of the refrigerator and place it on your flat work surface.  Remove one prefilled syringe and place it on your work surface.  Carefully lift the prefilled syringe straight up out of the box.  Do NOT shake the prefilled syringe of Enbrel.  Place the carton containing any remaining prefilled syringes back into the refrigerator 36° to 46°F [2° to 8°C ]).
  • Check the expiration date on the prefilled syringe. If the expiration date has passed, do NOT use the prefilled syringe and contact your pharmacist or call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) for assistance.
  • Do NOT use the prefilled syringe if the needle cover is missing or not securely attached.  Call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735).
  • For a more comfortable injection, leave the prefilled syringe at room temperature for about 15 to 30 minutes before injecting.  Do NOT remove the needle cover while allowing it to reach room temperature.  Do NOT warm Enbrel in any other way (for example, do NOT warm it in a microwave or in hot water).
  • Hold the prefilled syringe with the covered needle pointing down. If bubbles are seen in the syringe, very gently tap the prefilled syringe to allow any bubbles to rise to the top of the syringe. Turn the syringe so that the purple horizontal lines on the barrel are directly facing you. Check to see if the amount of liquid in the syringe falls between the purple lines. The top of the liquid may be curved. If the syringe does not have the right amount of liquid, DO NOT USE THAT SYRINGE. Contact your pharmacist or call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) for assistance.
    ENBREL
  • Assemble the additional supplies you will need for your injection. These include an alcohol swab, a cotton ball or gauze, and a sharps disposal container.
  • Wash your hands with soap and warm water.
  • Make sure the solution in the prefilled syringe is clear and colorless.  You may notice small white particles in the solution.  These particles are formed from Enbrel and this is acceptable.  However, do NOT inject the solution if it is cloudy or discolored, or contains large or colored particles –call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735).

STEP 2: Choosing and Preparing an Injection Site

  • Three recommended injection sites for Enbrel using a prefilled syringe include: (1) the front of the middle thighs; (2) the abdomen, except for the two-inch area right around the navel; and, (3) the outer area of the upper arms.

    ENBREL
  • Rotate the site for each injection. Do NOT inject into areas where the skin is tender, bruised, red, or hard. Avoid areas with scars or stretch marks.
  • If you have psoriasis, you should NOT inject directly into any raised, thick, red, or scaly skin patches (“psoriasis skin lesions”).
  • To prepare the area of skin where Enbrel is to be injected, wipe the injection site with an alcohol swab. Do NOT touch this area again before giving the injection.

STEP 3: Injecting Enbrel Using a Prefilled Syringe

Do NOT remove the needle cover from the prefilled syringe until you are ready to inject.

  • Pick up the prefilled syringe from your flat work surface.  Hold the barrel of the prefilled syringe with one hand and pull the needle cover straight off. To avoid damaging the needle, do NOT twist or bend the needle cover while you are removing it, and do NOT try to put the needle cover back onto the prefilled syringe.   

  • When you remove the needle cover, there may be a drop of liquid at the end of the needle; this is normal.  Do NOT touch the needle or allow it to touch any surface.  Do NOT touch or bump the plunger.  Doing so could cause the liquid to leak out.

  • Holding the syringe with the needle pointing up, check the syringe for air bubbles. If there are bubbles, gently tap the syringe with your finger until the air bubbles rise to the top of the syringe. Slowly push the plunger up to force the air bubbles out of the syringe.
  • Holding the syringe in one hand like a pencil, use the other hand to gently pinch a fold of skin at the cleaned injection site and hold it firmly.
  • Insert the needle at a slight angle (45 degrees) to the skin. With a quick, “dart-like” motion, insert the needle into the skin.
    ENBREL
  • When the needle is completely inserted into the skin, let go of the skin that you are holding.  With your free hand, hold the syringe near its base to stabilize it.  Then push the plunger to inject all of the Enbrel solution at a slow, steady rate.

  • When the syringe is empty, pull the needle out of the skin, being careful to keep it at the same angle as inserted.  There may be a little bleeding at the injection site.  You can press a cotton ball or gauze over the injection site for 10 seconds.  Do NOT rub the injection site. If needed, you may cover the injection site with a bandage.

STEP 4: Disposing of Supplies

The syringe should NEVER be reused. NEVER recap a needle.

Dispose of the used syringe as instructed by your healthcare provider, or by following these steps:

  • Do NOT throw the used syringe in the household trash or recycle.
  • Place the used syringe in a hard plastic disposal container with a screw-on cap or a metal container with a plastic lid, such as a coffee can, labeled “used syringes.” If a metal container is used, cut a small hole in the plastic lid and tape the lid to the metal container. If a hard plastic container is used, always screw the cap on tightly after each use. Do NOT use glass or clear plastic containers. Sharps disposal containers may also be purchased at your local pharmacy.
  • When the container is full, tape around the cap or lid to make sure the cap or lid does not come off.
  • You should always check first with your healthcare provider for instructions on how to properly dispose of a filled disposal container. There may be special state and local laws for disposing of used needles and syringes. Do NOT throw the disposal container in household trash. Do NOT recycle.
  • Always keep the container out of the reach of children.

A healthcare provider familiar with Enbrel should answer all questions.  Call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) or visit www.enbrel.com for more information about Enbrel.

These Instructions for Use have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

[Amgen Logo]

Manufactured by:
Immunex Corporation
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320-1799
Marketed by Amgen Inc.

© 1998 – 2013 Immunex Corporation. All rights reserved.

1XXXXXX - v6
Revised: 9/2013
PMV6

Enbrel® (en-brel)
(etanercept)
Multiple-use Vial

How do I prepare and give an injection with Enbrel Multiple-use Vial?

A multiple-use vial contains 25 mg of Enbrel.

Storage of Enbrel

  • Enbrel should be refrigerated at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).  Store Enbrel in the original carton to protect from light or physical damage.
  • If needed, you may store your Enbrel Multiple-use Vial and diluent syringe at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) for up to 14 days.
  • Throw away Enbrel that has been stored at room temperature after 14 days.
  • Mixed (reconstituted) Enbrel powder, should be used right away or kept in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) for up to 14 days.
  • Do NOT store Enbrel in extreme heat or cold. For example, avoid storing Enbrel in your vehicle’s glove box or trunk.  Do NOT freeze.
  • Keep Enbrel and all medicines out of the reach of children.  If you have any questions about storage, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist or call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) for further instructions.

STEP 1: Setting Up for an Injection

  • Select a clean, well-lit, flat work surface, such as a table.
  • Take the Enbrel dose tray out of the refrigerator and place it on your flat work surface.
  • Check the expiration date on the dose tray. If the expiration date has passed, do NOT use the dose tray. Also check to make sure the dose tray has five items as pictured below:
    • One prefilled diluent syringe containing 1 mL of diluent (liquid) with attached adapter and twist-off cap
    • One plunger
    • One Enbrel vial
    • One 27-gauge ½ inch needle in hard plastic cover
    • One vial adapter
      ENBREL

      If the expiration date has passed, the five items are not included in the dose tray or if any item looks damaged, contact your pharmacist or call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) for assistance.
  • For a more comfortable injection, leave the dose tray at room temperature for about 15 to 30 minutes before injecting.

  • Wash your hands with soap and warm water.
  • Peel the paper seal off the dose tray and remove all items.
  • Inspect the volume of diluent in the syringe with the twist-off cap pointing down. Use the unit markings on the side of the syringe to make sure there is at least 1 mL of liquid in the syringe. If the level of liquid is below the 1 mL mark, do NOT use. Contact your pharmacist or call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) for assistance.
  • Do NOT use the syringe if the twist-off cap is missing or not securely attached.  Call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735).
  • Two alcohol swabs should be available for the preparation and injection of Enbrel.  Alcohol swabs can be found at your local drug store.

STEP 2: Preparing the Enbrel Solution

There are two methods for preparing the Enbrel solution. For some children, one vial of Enbrel solution can be used for more than one dose. The free-hand method should be used for children on Enbrel who are using one vial of Enbrel solution for more than one dose. You should not use the vial adapter method if you will be using the vial more than once. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about which method to use.

  • The Vial Adapter Method

Adult patients and larger children on Enbrel may use the vial adapter device to assist with mixing the powder with the liquid and withdrawing Enbrel, and then use a 27-gauge needle to inject the dose. This method should not be used for children using multiple doses from the same vial of Enbrel. The instructions for using the vial adapter method are in STEP 2A.

  • The Free-Hand Method 

In the free-hand method, a 25-gauge needle is used to assist with mixing the powder with the liquid and withdrawing Enbrel, and a 27-gauge needle is used to inject the dose. Obtain 25-gauge needles from your healthcare provider. Instructions for using the free-hand method are in STEP 2B.

The instructions for preparing additional doses from the same vial of Enbrel solution are in STEP 3. For each additional dose, you will need two new needles (one 25-gauge needle to withdraw the solution and one 27-gauge needle for injection) and one new empty syringe (1 mL). NEVER REUSE A SYRINGE OR NEEDLE.

If you are using the vial of Enbrel for more than one dose, you should write the date you mixed the powder and liquid in the area marked “Mixing Date:” on the sticker supplied with these instructions, and attach the sticker to the Enbrel vial.

After you have withdrawn the dose of Enbrel that you need, store the Enbrel vial (in the dose tray) in the refrigerator at 36° to 46°F (2° to 8°C) as soon as possible, but always within 4 hours of mixing the solution. Do NOT freeze.  If you have any questions about storage, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, or call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) for further instructions.

The Enbrel solution must be used within 14 days of the mixing date. You should discard the Enbrel vial and any remaining solution if it is not used within 14 days. Do NOT mix any remaining liquid in one vial of Enbrel solution with another.

STEP 2A: Vial Adapter Method

  • Remove the pink plastic cap from the Enbrel vial. Do NOT remove the gray stopper or silver metal ring around the top of the Enbrel vial.
    ENBREL ENBREL
  • Place the Enbrel vial on your flat work surface or turn your dose tray upside down and place your Enbrel vial in the round space marked “V”. Use one alcohol swab to clean the gray stopper on the Enbrel vial. Do NOT touch the gray stopper with your hands.
  • Open the wrapper that contains the 27-gauge needle by peeling apart the tabs and set the needle aside for later use.
    ENBREL
  • Open the wrapper that contains the vial adapter by peeling apart the tabs and set the vial adapter aside for later use. Do NOT touch the vial adapter’s twist-on end or the spike inside.
    ENBREL
  • Slide the plunger into the flange end of the syringe.
    ENBREL
  • Attach the plunger to the gray rubber stopper in the syringe by turning the plunger clockwise until a slight resistance is felt.
    ENBREL
  • Remove the twist-off cap from the prefilled diluent syringe by turning counter-clockwise. Do NOT bump or touch the plunger. Doing so could cause the liquid to leak out. You may see a drop of liquid when removing the cap. This is normal. Place the cap on your flat work surface. Do NOT touch the syringe tip.
    ENBREL
  • Once the twist-off cap is removed, pick up the vial adapter with your free hand. Twist the vial adapter onto the syringe, turning clockwise, until a slight resistance is felt. Do NOT over-tighten.
    ENBREL
  • Hold the Enbrel vial upright on your flat work surface. Grasp the sides of the vial adapter and place it over the top of the Enbrel vial. Do NOT bump or touch the plunger. Doing so could cause the liquid to leak out. Insert the vial adapter into the gray stopper on the Enbrel vial. The plastic spike inside the vial adapter should puncture the gray stopper. The vial adapter should fit snugly.
    ENBREL
  • Hold the Enbrel vial upright on your flat work surface and push the plunger down until all the liquid from the syringe is in the Enbrel vial. You may see foaming (bubbles) in the vial. This is normal.
    ENBREL
  • Gently swirl the Enbrel vial in a circular motion to dissolve the powder. If you used the dose tray to hold your Enbrel vial, take the vial (with the vial adapter and syringe still attached) out of the dose tray, and gently swirl the vial in a circular motion to dissolve the powder.
    ENBREL
    DO NOT SHAKE. Wait until all the powder dissolves (usually less than 10 minutes). The solution should be clear and colorless. After the powder has completely dissolved, foam (bubbles) may still be present. This is normal. Do NOT inject the solution if it is discolored, contains lumps, flakes, or particles. If all the powder in the Enbrel vial is not dissolved or there are particles present after 10 minutes, call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735).
  • Turn the Enbrel vial upside down. Hold the syringe at eye level and slowly pull the plunger down to the unit markings on the side of the syringe that correspond with your/your child’s dose. For adult patients, remove the entire volume (1 mL), unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. Be careful not to pull the plunger completely out of the syringe. Some white foam may remain in the Enbrel vial. This is normal.
    ENBREL
  • Check for air bubbles in the syringe. Gently tap the syringe to make any air bubbles rise to the top of the syringe. Slowly push the plunger up to remove the air bubbles. If you push solution back into the vial, slowly pull back on the plunger to again draw the correct amount of solution back into the syringe.
    ENBREL
  • Remove the syringe from the vial adapter, by holding the vial adapter with one hand and turning the syringe counter-clockwise with your other hand. Do NOT touch or bump the plunger. Place the Enbrel vial with the vial adapter on your flat work surface.
    ENBREL
  • Continue to hold the barrel of the syringe. With your free hand, twist the 27-gauge needle onto the tip of the syringe until it fits snugly. Do NOT remove the needle cover from the syringe. Place the syringe on your flat work surface until you are ready to inject Enbrel.
    ENBREL

GO TO STEP 4: CHOOSING AND PREPARING AN INJECTION SITE.

STEP 2B: Free-Hand Method

If you are preparing a dose from an Enbrel vial that was previously used, go to STEP 3: Preparing Additional Doses from a Single Enbrel Vial.

  • Remove the pink plastic cap from the Enbrel vial. Do NOT remove the gray stopper or silver metal ring around the top of the Enbrel vial. Write the date you mix the powder and solution on the supplied “Mixing Date:” sticker and attach it to the Enbrel vial.
    ENBREL
    ENBREL
  • Place the Enbrel vial on your flat work surface. Use one alcohol swab to clean the gray stopper on the Enbrel vial. Do NOT touch the gray stopper with your hands.
  • Open the wrapper that contains the 25-gauge needle by peeling apart the tabs and set the needle aside for later use. The 25-gauge needle will be used to mix the liquid with the powder and for withdrawing Enbrel from the vial.
    ENBREL
  • Slide the plunger into the flange end of the syringe.
    ENBREL
  • Attach the plunger to the gray rubber stopper in the syringe by turning the plunger clockwise until a slight resistance is felt.
    ENBREL
  • Remove the twist-off cap from the prefilled diluent syringe by turning counter-clockwise. Do NOT touch or bump the plunger. Doing so could cause the liquid to leak out. You may see a drop of liquid when removing the cap. This is normal. Place the cap on your flat work surface. Do NOT touch the syringe tip. 
    ENBREL
     
  • Continue to hold the barrel of the syringe. With your free hand, twist the 25-gauge needle onto the tip of the syringe until it fits snugly. Place the syringe on your flat work surface.
    ENBREL
  • Open the wrapper that contains the 27-gauge needle by peeling apart the tabs and set the needle aside for later use. The 27-gauge needle will be used to inject the dose.
    ENBREL
  • Pick up the syringe from your flat work surface. Hold the barrel of the syringe with one hand, and pull the needle cover straight off. To avoid damaging the needle, do NOT twist or bend the needle cover while you are removing it. Do NOT touch the needle or allow it to touch any surface. Do NOT touch or bump the plunger. Doing so could cause the liquid to leak out.
    ENBREL
  • Place the needle cover (open side up) in the round space marked “N” in the Enbrel dose tray.
    ENBREL
  • Place the Enbrel vial on your flat work surface. Hold the syringe with the needle facing up, and gently pull back on the plunger to pull a small amount of air into the syringe. Then, insert the needle straight down through the center ring of the gray stopper (see illustrations). You should feel a slight resistance and then a “pop” as the needle goes through the center of the stopper. Look for the needle tip inside the open stopper window. If the needle is not correctly lined up with the center of the stopper, you will feel constant resistance as it goes through the stopper and no “pop”. The needle may enter at an angle and bend, break or prevent you from adding diluent into the Enbrel vial.
    ENBREL
  • Push the plunger down VERY SLOWLY until all liquid from the syringe is in the Enbrel vial. Adding the liquid too fast will cause foaming (bubbles).
    ENBREL
  • Leave the syringe in place. Gently swirl the Enbrel vial in a circular motion to dissolve the powder.
    ENBREL
    DO NOT SHAKE. Wait until all the powder dissolves (usually less than 10 minutes). The solution should be clear and colorless. After the powder has completely dissolved, foam (bubbles) may still be present. This is normal. Do NOT inject the solution if it is discolored, contains lumps, flakes, or particles. If all the powder in the Enbrel vial is not dissolved or there are particles present after 10 minutes, call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735).
  • With the needle in the Enbrel vial, turn the vial upside down. Hold the syringe at eye level and slowly pull the plunger down to the unit markings on the side of the syringe that correspond with the correct dose. Make sure to keep the tip of the needle in the solution. Some white foam may remain in the Enbrel vial. This is normal.
    ENBREL
  • With the needle still inserted in the Enbrel vial, check for air bubbles in the syringe. Gently tap the syringe to make any air bubbles rise to the top of the syringe. Slowly push the plunger up to remove the air bubbles. If you push solution back into the vial, slowly pull back on the plunger to draw the correct amount of solution back into the syringe.
    ENBREL
  • Remove the syringe and needle from the Enbrel vial. Keep the needle attached to the syringe and insert the 25-gauge needle straight down into the needle cover in the Enbrel dose tray.
    ENBREL
    You should hear a “snap” when the needle is secure in the needle cover. Once the needle is secure in the needle cover, untwist the 25-gauge needle from the syringe and dispose of the needle in your sharps disposal container.
  • Twist the 27-gauge needle onto the syringe until it fits snugly. Do NOT remove the needle cover from the syringe. Place the syringe on your flat work surface until you are ready to inject Enbrel.
    ENBREL
  • If there is enough solution left in the Enbrel vial for another dose, write the date you mixed the powder and liquid in the area marked “Mixing Date:” on the sticker supplied with these instructions, and attach the sticker to the Enbrel vial. Refrigerate the reconstituted (mixed) Enbrel vial (in the dose tray) after mixing. Prepare additional doses from the Enbrel vial as described in STEP 3. Otherwise, discard the Enbrel vial and any remaining solution.

GO TO STEP 4: CHOOSING AND PREPARING AN INJECTION SITE.

STEP 3: Preparing Additional Doses from a Single Enbrel Vial

  • Select a clean, well-lit, flat work surface, such as a table.
  • The needles and syringes supplied with Enbrel should not be reused. You will need new ones for each additional dose. Your healthcare provider will tell you what type of syringes (1 mL) and needles (25- and 27-gauge) to use.  Place the sterile syringe with a 25-gauge needle (for withdrawing Enbrel), a 27-gauge needle (for injecting Enbrel) and two alcohol swabs on your flat work surface.
  • Take the vial of Enbrel solution that is stored in the dose tray out of the refrigerator and place it on your flat work surface.
  • Check the mixing date you wrote on the sticker on the Enbrel vial. Discard the Enbrel vial if more than 14 days have passed since the Enbrel solution was mixed.
  • Wash your hands with soap and warm water.
  • Use one alcohol swab to clean the gray stopper on the Enbrel vial. Do NOT touch the stopper with your hands.
  • If the syringe and the 25-gauge needle are not pre-assembled, assemble them as instructed by your healthcare provider.
  • Open the wrapper that contains the 27-gauge needle by peeling apart the tabs and set the needle aside for later use. The 27-gauge needle will be used to inject the dose of Enbrel.
  • Hold the syringe and pull the needle cover straight off. To avoid damaging the needle, do NOT twist or bend the needle cover while you are removing it. Do NOT touch the needle or allow it to touch any surface. Place the needle cover (open side up) in the round space marked “N” in the Enbrel dose tray.
  • Place the Enbrel vial on your flat work surface. Hold the syringe with the needle facing up, and gently pull back the plunger to pull a small amount of air into the syringe. Then, insert the 25-gauge needle straight down through the center ring of the gray stopper. You should feel a slight resistance and then a “pop” as the needle goes through the center of the stopper. Look for the needle tip inside the open stopper window. If the needle is not correctly lined up with the center of the stopper, you will feel constant resistance as it goes through the stopper and no “pop”. The needle may enter at an angle and bend, break, or prevent proper withdrawal of Enbrel solution from the vial.
  • Keep the needle in the Enbrel vial and turn the vial upside down. Hold the syringe at eye level, and slowly pull the plunger down to the unit markings on the syringe that correspond to your child’s dose. As the amount of solution in the Enbrel vial drops, you may need to pull the needle back just enough to keep the tip of the needle in the solution.
  • With the needle still inserted in the Enbrel vial, check for air bubbles in the syringe. Gently tap the syringe to make any air bubbles rise to the top of the syringe. Slowly push the plunger up to remove the air bubbles. If you push solution back into the Enbrel vial, slowly pull back on the plunger to again draw the correct amount of solution back into the syringe.
  • Remove the syringe and needle from the Enbrel vial. Keep the needle attached to the syringe and insert the 25-gauge needle straight down into the needle cover in the Enbrel dose tray. You should hear a “snap” when the needle is secure in the needle cover. Once the needle is secure in the needle cover, remove the 25-gauge needle from the syringe and dispose of the needle in a sharps disposal container.
  • Attach the 27-gauge needle onto the tip of the syringe until it fits snugly. Do NOT remove the needle cover from the syringe. Place the syringe on your flat work surface until you are ready to inject Enbrel.

STEP 4: Choosing and Preparing an Injection Site

  • Three recommended injection sites for Enbrel include: (1) the front of the middle thighs; (2) the abdomen, except for the two-inch area right around the navel; and, (3) the outer area of the upper arms.
    ENBREL
  • Rotate the site for each injection. Do NOT inject into areas where the skin is tender, bruised, red, or hard. Avoid areas with scars or stretch marks.
  • If you have psoriasis, you should NOT inject directly into any raised, thick, red, or scaly skin patches or lesions.
  • To prepare the area of skin where Enbrel is to be injected, wipe the injection site with a new alcohol swab. Do NOT touch this area again before giving the injection.

STEP 5: Injecting the Enbrel Solution

Do NOT remove the needle cover from the syringe until you are ready to inject.

  • Pick up the syringe from your flat work surface. Hold the barrel of the syringe with one hand and pull the needle cover straight off. To avoid damaging the needle, do NOT twist or bend the needle cover while you are removing it, and do NOT try to put the needle cover back onto the syringe. When you remove the needle cover, there may be a drop of liquid at the end of the needle; this is normal. Do NOT touch the needle or allow it to touch any surface. Do NOT touch or bump the plunger. Doing so could cause the liquid to leak out.
    ENBREL
  • With one hand, gently pinch the cleaned area of skin and hold it firmly. With the other hand, hold the syringe (like a pencil) at a 45-degree angle to the skin.
    ENBREL
  • With a quick, "dart-like" motion, push the needle into the skin.
  • When the needle is completely inserted into the skin, let go of the skin that you are holding.  With your free hand, hold the syringe near its base to stabilize it.  Then push the plunger to inject all of the Enbrel solution at a slow, steady rate.
    ENBREL
  • When the syringe is empty, pull the needle out of the skin, being careful to keep it at the same angle as inserted.
  • There may be a little bleeding at the injection site. You can press a cotton ball or gauze over the injection site for 10 seconds. Do NOT rub the injection site. If needed, you may cover the injection site with a bandage.
  • If your doctor has instructed you to take two Enbrel injections on the same day, repeat the steps to prepare and give an injection of Enbrel. Choose and prepare a new injection site for the second injection.
  • FOR FREE-HAND METHOD - If there is enough solution left in the Enbrel vial for another dose, refrigerate the reconstituted (mixed) Enbrel vial (in the dose tray) after use. Otherwise, discard the Enbrel vial and any remaining solution.

STEP 6: Disposing of Supplies

The syringe, needles, and vial adapter should NEVER be reused. NEVER recap a needle.

Dispose of both the used needle and syringe as instructed by your healthcare provider, or by following these steps:

  • Do NOT throw the used needle or syringe in the household trash or recycle.
  • Place the used needle and syringe in a hard plastic disposal container with a screw-on cap or a metal container with a plastic lid, such as a coffee can, labeled “used syringes.” If a metal container is used, cut a small hole in the plastic lid and tape the lid to the metal container. If a hard plastic container is used, always screw the cap on tightly after each use. Do NOT use glass or clear plastic containers. Sharps disposal containers may also be purchased at your local pharmacy.
  • When the container is full, tape around the cap or lid to make sure the cap or lid does not come off.
  • You should always check first with your healthcare provider for instructions on how to properly dispose of a filled disposal container. There may be special state and local laws for disposing of used needles and syringes. Do NOT throw the disposal container in household trash. Do NOT recycle.
  • Always keep the container out of the reach of children.
  • The Enbrel vials, vial adapters, and used alcohol swabs should be placed in the trash. The dose tray and cover may be recycled.

A healthcare provider familiar with Enbrel should answer all questions. Call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) or visit www.enbrel.com for more information about Enbrel.

These Instructions for Use have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

[Amgen Logo]

Manufactured by:
Immunex Corporation
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320-1799
Marketed by Amgen Inc.

© 1998 – 2013 Immunex Corporation. All rights reserved.

1XXXXXX – v7
Revised: 9/2013
PMV7

Enbrel® (en-brel)
(etanercept)
Single-use Prefilled SureClick® Autoinjector

How do I prepare and give an injection with Enbrel Single-use Prefilled SureClick Autoinjector? 

This section contains information on how to properly use the Enbrel SureClick autoinjector. It is important that you do NOT try to give yourself the injection unless you have received special training from your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

A single-use prefilled SureClick autoinjector contains one 50 mg dose of Enbrel.

Children must weigh at least 138 pounds to use Enbrel single-use prefilled SureClick autoinjector. Children who weigh less than 138 pounds should use a different form of Enbrel.

IMPORTANT: The needle cap on the single-use prefilled SureClick autoinjector contains a needle cover that is composed of dry natural rubber, which is made from latex. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to latex.

Equipment:

  • A new Enbrel SureClick autoinjector, and
  • Alcohol wipes or similar
  • Cotton ball or gauze
  • Sharps disposal container

Storage of Enbrel

  • Enbrel should be refrigerated at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).  Store Enbrel in the original carton to protect from light or physical damage.
  • If needed, you may store your Enbrel SureClick autoinjector at room temperature at 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) for up to 14 days.
    • Once Enbrel has reached room temperature, do not put it back in the refrigerator.
  • Throw away Enbrel that has been stored at room temperature after 14 days.
  • Do NOT store Enbrel in extreme heat or cold.  For example, avoid storing Enbrel in your vehicle’s glove box or trunk.  Do NOT freeze.
  • Keep Enbrel and all medicines out of the reach of children.  If you have any questions about storage, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, or call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) for further instructions.

Preparing for an Enbrel Injection

  • Find a comfortable, well-lit, clean surface and put all the equipment you need within reach.
  • Remove one single-use prefilled Enbrel SureClick autoinjector from the carton. Carefully lift the autoinjector straight up out of the box. Do NOT shake the autoinjector. Place the carton containing any remaining autoinjectors back into the refrigerator (36° to 46°F [2° to 8°C]).
  • Check the expiration date on the autoinjector label. If the expiration date has passed, do NOT use the autoinjector and contact your pharmacist or call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) for assistance.
  • The syringe in your Enbrel autoinjector may break if you drop it onto a hard surface. You may not be able to see that the syringe in your Enbrel autoinjector is cracked or broken. If you drop it onto a hard surface, do NOT use the autoinjector.  Use a new autoinjector for your injection.
  • Do NOT use the autoinjector if the white needle cap is missing or not securely attached.  Call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735).
  • Look at Enbrel through the inspection window.  It should be clear and colorless, or may have small white particles. Do NOT inject Enbrel if it looks cloudy, discolored, or has large lumps, flakes or colored particles. Call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735).  Use a new autoinjector for your injection.
  • For a more comfortable injection, leave the autoinjector at room temperature for about 15 to 30 minutes before injecting. Do NOT remove the white needle cap while allowing it to reach room temperature. Do  NOT warm Enbrel in any other way (for example, do NOT warm it in a microwave or in hot water).
  • Wash your hands thoroughly.
  • Do NOT remove the white needle cap from the autoinjector until you are ready to inject.
ENBREL

Choosing and Preparing an Injection Site

Choose an Injection Site

The injection site must be firm for the autoinjector to work properly. The preferred injection site for Enbrel using a prefilled SureClick autoinjector is the front of the thigh.

  • Rotate Injection Location
    Rotate the site for each injection. Do NOT inject into areas where the skin is tender, bruised, red, or hard. Avoid areas with stretch marks.
  • Patients with Psoriasis
    If you have psoriasis, you should NOT inject directly into any raised, thick, red, or scaly skin patches or lesions.

Instructions for Preferred Injection Site

  ENBREL   

The front of the thigh is the preferred injection site.

  ENBREL

Instructions for Alternate Injection Sites

When using alternate injection sites, it is particularly important to create enough firmness on the site to be able to successfully complete the injection.

  ENBREL   

Stretch technique

Make sure the skin under and around the prefilled autoinjector is firm and taut to provide enough resistance to fully retract the safety guard and unlock the prefilled autoinjector.
  ENBREL   

You can use the abdomen, except for the two-inch area right around the navel. Stretch the skin at the injection site to create a firm and taut surface.

  ENBREL   

If someone else is giving you the injection, they can also use the outer area of the upper arms. For the upper arms, it is recommended to stretch the skin at the injection site to create a firm and taut surface.

Prepare the Site

To prepare the area of skin where Enbrel is to be injected, wipe the injection site with an alcohol swab. Do NOT touch this area again before giving the injection.

Injecting Enbrel Using a Single-use Prefilled SureClick Autoinjector

 Do NOT remove the white needle cap from the autoinjector until you are ready to inject.

1. Pull  the white needle cap straight off.  To avoid damaging the needle inside the autoinjector, do NOT twist or bend the white needle cap while you are removing it, and do NOT try to put the white needle cap back onto the autoinjector. 

When you remove the white needle cap, there may be a drop of liquid at the end of the needle or safety guard; this is normal.

  ENBREL

Do NOT twist or bend the white needle cap.

Do NOT re-attach the white needle cap onto the prefilled autoinjector.
  ✓  Do pull the white needle cap straight off.

2. Do NOT touch the purple button. Press prefilled autoinjector onto skin to unlock safety guard.

  ENBREL
  ⃠   Do NOT press the purple button until the safety guard is fully retracted.

  ✓

  Do keep enough downward pressure to fully retract the purple safety guard and to keep the purple button unlocked.
  ✓   Do hold the prefilled autoinjector at a right angle (90º) at the injection site.

3. Briefly press and release purple button.

  ENBREL
  ✓    Do maintain pressure on the skin during the injection.

4. Count slowly to 15 seconds for injection to end and check window to confirm delivery of full dose.

  ENBREL
  ⃠    Do NOT move the prefilled autoinjector during the injection.
  ✓    Do wait for the injection to finish before releasing pressure.
  ✓    You might hear a second click as the purple button pops back up.

After the Injection

  • There may be a little bleeding at the injection site. You can press a cotton ball or gauze over the injection site.
  • Do NOT rub the injection site.  If needed, you may cover the injection site with a bandage.
  ENBREL   ✓   Do check the inspection window to confirm it has turned purple.
  !   If the inspection window is not purple, call your healthcare provider.

Remember

If you have any problems, please call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) for assistance.

Disposing of Supplies

The SureClick autoinjector should NEVER be reused.

Dispose of the used autoinjector as instructed by your healthcare provider, or by following these steps:

  • Do NOT throw the used autoinjector in the household trash or recycle.
  • Place the used autoinjector in a hard plastic disposal container with a screw-on cap or a metal container with a plastic lid, such as a coffee can, labeled “used syringes.” If a metal container is used, cut a small hole in the plastic lid and tape the lid to the metal container. If a hard plastic container is used, always screw the cap on tightly after each use. Do NOT use glass or clear plastic containers. Sharps disposal containers may also be purchased at your local pharmacy.
  • When the container is full, tape around the cap or lid to make sure the cap or lid does not come off.
  • You should always check first with your healthcare provider for instructions on how to properly dispose of a filled disposal container. There may be special state and local laws for disposing of used needles and syringes, including autoinjectors. Do NOT throw the disposal container in household trash. Do NOT recycle.
  • Always keep the container out of the reach of children.

A healthcare provider familiar with Enbrel should answer all questions.  Call 1-888-4ENBREL (1-888-436-2735) or visit www.enbrel.com for more information about Enbrel.

These Instructions for Use have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

[Amgen Logo]

Manufactured by:
Immunex Corporation
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320-1799
Marketed by Amgen Inc.

© 1998 - 2013 Immunex Corporation. All rights reserved.

1XXXXXX- v8
Revised: 11/2013
PMV7

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - PREFILLED SYRINGE, 25 MG

Contains 4 Single-use Prefilled Syringes

NDC 58406-455-04

Enbrel®

etanercept

25 mg/0.5 mL

Single-use Prefilled Syringe

25 mg

Attention: Not for use in pediatric patients under 68 lbs.

For Subcutaneous Use Only

Sterile Solution - No Preservative

Refrigerate at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F). DO NOT FREEZE.

Carton contents (4 single-use prefilled syringes, 1 package insert with attached Medication Guide) are

intended to be dispensed as a unit.

ATTENTION: Enclosed Medication Guide is required for each patient.

This Product Contains Dry Natural Rubber.

AMGEN® Pfizer Rx Only

Manufactured by Immunex Corporation, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320

Marketed by Amgen and Pfizer Inc.

ENBREL

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - PREFILLED SYRINGE, 50 MG

Contains 4 Single-use Prefilled Syringes

NDC 58406-435-04

Enbrel®

etanercept

50 mg/mL

Single-use Prefilled Syringe

50 mg

Attention: Not for use in pediatric patients under 138 lbs.

For Subcutaneous Use Only

Sterile Solution - No Preservative

Refrigerate at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F). DO NOT FREEZE.

Carton contents (4 single-use prefilled syringes, 1 package insert with attached Medication Guide) are

intended to be dispensed as a unit.

ATTENTION: Enclosed Medication Guide is required for each patient.

This Product Contains Dry Natural Rubber.

AMGEN® Pfizer Rx Only

Manufactured by Immunex Corporation, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320

Marketed by Amgen and Pfizer Inc.

ENBREL

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - PREFILLED AUTOINJECTOR, 50 MG

Contains 4 Single-use Prefilled Autoinjectors

NDC 58406-445-04

Enbrel®

etanercept

SureClick® Autoinjector

50 mg/mL

Single-use Prefilled Autoinjector

50 mg

Attention: Not for use in pediatric patients under 138 lbs.

For Subcutaneous Use Only

Sterile Solution – No Preservative

Refrigerate at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F). DO NOT FREEZE.

Carton contents (4 prefilled SureClick® Autoinjectors, 1 package insert with attached Medication Guide) are

intended to be dispensed as a unit.

ATTENTION: Enclosed Medication Guide is required for each patient.

This Product Contains Dry Natural Rubber.

AMGEN® Pfizer Rx Only

Manufactured by Immunex Corporation, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320

Marketed by Amgen and Pfizer Inc.

ENBREL

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - VIAL, 25 MG

Contains 4 Dose Trays

NDC 58406-425-34

Amgen®

Enbrel®

etanercept

25 mg/vial

Multiple-use Vial

25 mg/vial

Carton contents (4 dose trays, 1 package insert with attached Medication Guide and mixing date stickers) are intended to be dispensed as a unit.

Each dose tray contains one 25 mg vial of etanercept, one diluent syringe (1 mL Sterile Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP, containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol), one 27-gauge ½ inch needle, one vial adapter, and one plunger.

ATTENTION: Enclosed Medication Guide is required for each patient.

Rx Only

Before and after reconstitution refrigerate at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F). DO NOT FREEZE.

For Subcutaneous Use Only

ENBREL

ENBREL

etanercept SOLUTION

Product Information

Product Type Human prescription drug label Item Code (Source) NDC:58406-435
Route of Administration SUBCUTANEOUS DEA Schedule

Active Ingredient/Active Moiety

Ingredient Name Basis of Strength Strength
ETANERCEPT ETANERCEPT 50 mg

Inactive Ingredients

Ingredient Name Strength
arginine hydrochloride
SODIUM CHLORIDE
sodium phosphate
SUCROSE

Packaging

# Item Code Package Description Marketing Start Date Marketing End Date
1 NDC:58406-435-01 1 in 1 SYRINGE
2 NDC:58406-435-04 4 in 1 CARTON

Marketing Information

Marketing Category Application Number or Monograph Citation Marketing Start Date Marketing End Date
BLA BLA103795 2005-10-06


ENBREL

etanercept SOLUTION

Product Information

Product Type Human prescription drug label Item Code (Source) NDC:58406-445
Route of Administration SUBCUTANEOUS DEA Schedule

Active Ingredient/Active Moiety

Ingredient Name Basis of Strength Strength
ETANERCEPT ETANERCEPT 50 mg

Inactive Ingredients

Ingredient Name Strength
arginine hydrochloride
SODIUM CHLORIDE
sodium phosphate
SUCROSE

Packaging

# Item Code Package Description Marketing Start Date Marketing End Date
1 NDC:58406-445-01 1 in 1 SYRINGE
2 NDC:58406-445-04 4 in 1 CARTON

Marketing Information

Marketing Category Application Number or Monograph Citation Marketing Start Date Marketing End Date
BLA BLA103795 2005-11-10


ENBREL

etanercept KIT

Product Information

Product Type Human prescription drug label Item Code (Source) NDC:58406-425
Route of Administration DEA Schedule

Packaging

# Item Code Package Description Marketing Start Date Marketing End Date
1 NDC:58406-425-41 1 in 1 KIT
2 NDC:58406-425-34 4 in 1 CARTON

Marketing Information

Marketing Category Application Number or Monograph Citation Marketing Start Date Marketing End Date
BLA BLA103795 2003-01-02


ENBREL

etanercept SOLUTION

Product Information

Product Type Human prescription drug label Item Code (Source) NDC:58406-455
Route of Administration SUBCUTANEOUS DEA Schedule

Active Ingredient/Active Moiety

Ingredient Name Basis of Strength Strength
ETANERCEPT ETANERCEPT 25 mg

Inactive Ingredients

Ingredient Name Strength
arginine hydrochloride
SODIUM CHLORIDE
sodium phosphate
SUCROSE

Packaging

# Item Code Package Description Marketing Start Date Marketing End Date
1 NDC:58406-455-01 0.5 in 1 SYRINGE
2 NDC:58406-455-04 4 in 1 CARTON

Marketing Information

Marketing Category Application Number or Monograph Citation Marketing Start Date Marketing End Date
BLA BLA103795 2005-11-10


PLEASE, BE CAREFUL!
Be sure to consult your doctor before taking any medication!
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