Do you catch more colds taking Enbrel? | Arthritis Information

 

Since starting Enbrel I seem to catch a cold every time I am around someone who is sick.  I have also had a few bad Sinus infections.  Prior to Enbrel, I have never had a need to take antibiotics to fight an infection.  Conversely, in the 3 years I have been taking Enbrel I have needed antibiotics 3 times to fight head colds.  Do you also feel like you may have a depressed immune system as a result of takeing Enbrel?

I know there are some new drugs like Humera that fight RA/PA.  Has anyone experienced the symptoms described above while taking Humera?

 

Thanks,

 

My doc told me that being on Enbrel does not make you more susceptable to illness but it affects you ability to fight it.

So a simple cold can easily progess to sinus infections, pneumonia, etc. Also with you being on Enbrel they are probably more likely to put you on an antibiotic right away rather than wait for a bacterial infection.Forgot to finish-

Enbrel suppresses your immune system. That's kinda the point. An overactive immune system is what causes RA.

I've not been on Humira but it is a similar drug.I am knocking on wood as I write this --- but no, I haven't gotten one cold since starting Enbrel in June. I'm sorry you're having such a problem. I've been really vigilant though to not get germs. I don't care if I offend anyone anymore either. I use hand sanitizer constantly, wash hands, if I'm walking near someone who happens to cough or sneeze I hold my breath and turn my head and walk fast! The thing that gets me is that in church they make you shake hands with those around you. I hate doing that. I don't want to be rude and say "No sorry, I don't shake hands" so I turn to my husband and kids, kiss them, and whisper something nice to my kiddies until that part of the service is over. That being said, I must confess, I only go to church three times a year.
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