Authors' objectives: This report aims to summarise the available evidence on the use of etanercept (Enbrel(R)) in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Authors' recommendations: Enbrel(R) has been approved by the FDA for treatment of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and severe to moderate rheumatoid arthritis. It is for use in patients who have an inadequate response to one or more disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Enbrel(R) inhibits the binding of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) to its receptor. TNF is a protein secreted by certain immunoregulatory cells. Normally this protein helps fight infection; however in an autoimmune disease it contributes to the inflammation which destroys joints. In a study, 69 patients aged 4 to 17 years were treated for three months with Enbrel(R). These patients had discontinued treatment with methotrexate due to intolerance or poor response. Fifty-one patients (74%) showed improvement. This group of responders was then divided into two groups to continue receiving Enbrel(R) or placebo. Those who continued on the drug remained stable, while those on placebo deteriorated. When restarted on Enbrel(R), the placebo group improved again.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2000

URL for published report: https://www.ihe.ca/advanced-search?type=1020

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Canada

Organisation Name: Institute of Health Economics

Contact Address: 1200, 10405 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T5J 3N4. Tel: +1 780 448 4881; Fax: +1 780 448 0018;

Contact Name: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Contact Email: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Copyright: Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research (AHFMR)