These reactions lead to joint swelling and pain and eventual damage. TNF works by attaching to chemical receptors on the surface of cells which then produce other chemicals to cause inflammation. This action prevents inflammation and presumably damage in joints. Etanercept provided additional benefit to some patients who were already taking methotrexate. Patients may be able to perform this procedure themselves at home.
Some patients experience injection site reactions.
There is some theoretical concern that blockade of TNF action may affect the ability to fight certain infections. Whether there is a risk of developing tumors of the lymph nodes with chronic therapy is unknown. It is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women. Etanercept costs 15 to 20 times as much as generic methotrexate. It is now available on the market.