How ENBREL Works
Plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are diseases of the
immune system. In patients with plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, certain immune cells
are activated and play an important role. They overproduce inflammatory proteins such as
tumor necrosis factor (TNF). These proteins can cause inflammation in the skin, which can cause skin cells to grow too quickly. The skin cells build up and form raised, red patches, often with silvery scales, known as psoriatic lesions. These plaques may itch, be
painful, and can bleed. This protein also causes inflammation in the joints, which can create pain and progressive joint damage.
Targeting the source
Biologic therapies like ENBREL actually target the source of psoriatic skin
symptoms and can help lessen the joint pain and help stop joint
damage associated with psoriatic arthritis.
ENBREL blocks the activity of excess TNF to reduce the inflammation that causes psoriatic lesions
and joint pain. Because ENBREL works on your immune system, it may lower the ability of your
immune system to fight infections and may raise other safety concerns. If you have any sign of an infection including a fever, cough, flu-like
symptoms, or have any open sores on your body, call your doctor.
Please see Prescribing Information, Important Safety Information, and Medication Guide for complete details about ENBREL.
ENBREL is indicated for adults with psoriatic arthritis and chronic moderate to
severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy.
Watch this short video, in which Dr. Craig Leonardi explains how plaque psoriasis is a disease of the immune system and describes how ENBREL works. See how ENBREL targets the immune system to reduce the overproduction of skin cells to help you get clearer skin.
Prescription ENBREL is taken by injection.
ENBREL is indicated for reducing signs and symptoms, keeping joint damage from getting worse, and improving physical function in patients with psoriatic arthritis. ENBREL can be used in combination with methotrexate in patients who do not respond adequately to methotrexate alone.
ENBREL is indicated for the treatment of adult patients (18 years or older) with chronic moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy.
- ENBREL was shown to be effective in about 50% of patients at 6 months. Clinical responses were apparent at the time of the first visit (4 weeks) and were maintained through 6 months of therapy.
- In medical studies, nearly half of patients saw 75% skin clearance in 3 months. Overall, 3 out of 4 patients saw 50% skin clearance in 3 months.