1st Time Enbrel Hints | Arthritis Information

Hi All,

I trust to guys to give me hints for starting on Enbrel. For instance, where to inject, room temp or straight out of the fridge, etc.

Also, how long before I can expect improvement. Thanks so much!

Hello~!

Always let your Enbrel come to room temp. before injecting, it doesn't sting as much.

I inject in my tummy, I just alternate sides. Don't get to high, or it will hurt. If you inject no higher than the belly button, you should be fine. I have heard others inject in thighs, arms, etc. maybe someone will chime in with their experiences.

I had results in a week. Unfortunately, I had an infection shortly thereafter and have had a hard time getting that level of relief back. Everyone is different, so remember not to compare yourself to others

Also, I inject twice a week and MTX once a week. So, I really inject 3 times a week. Some people do it all on one day. You will find what works for you.

Good luck, keep us posted

Phats

Room temp is a must. My dr. gave me the tip to put the injection in the bathroom while i'm taking my shower. That way it warms up faster plus then I inject it while my skin is still hot from the shower. I inject in my thigh. I put the needle in and then I push the plunger very slowly, I stop every second or so to let the burn subside. I hope that helps. Let us know how you do. Good luck

I took Enbrel 7 years ago so it is hard to remember when it kicked in - I think it was less than 1 month. It should kick in by the 12 week.

Let the thing come to room temp. Make sure all the alcohol has completely dried. I used thighs and tummy. I like the tummy better - hurt less and is less likely to cause a bruise.

Somebody on here had a chant that gave them courage. 'My toes won't hurt. My ankles won't hurt. My knees won't hurt. My hips won't hurt. ETC'

The very best of luck to you.

Kathy's handy dandy injection tips

it is such a non issue now. I used to faint at finger tip blood tests..Here is what works for me.

First thing give yourself time, this isn't a facial, but it is something you are doing for you. treat it like a gift. fix a cup of coffee, go someplace quiet, play calming music.

Make sure the syringe is WARM. your body is 98.6... room temp will be a shock. I rest the syringe across the top of my coffee mug. Then just before I inject I roll it between my palms.

Ice the area of your tummy you will inject. Get it REALLY cold. I have an ice pack in a light tshirt, and leave it there for a good long time. You want that area numb. Wipe your tummy with the alcohol pad and let it dry.. Completely.

Pinch up a roll of flab about the size of your thumb and finger together, check the syringe, and gently push the plunger in a little to get the air out of the syringe..

Hold the syringe like you are throwing a dart, and slide the point into the skin you have pinched up. The ice will have numbed it so much you won't feel the needle slide in.

Release the flab, and shift your fingers on the needle holding it between the index and middle finger, with the thumb on the plunger.

SLOWLY depress the plunger..I depress to a chant..."My toes won't hurt, my ankles won't hurt, my knees won't hurt, my hips won't hurt, my fingers won't hurt, my wrists won't hurt, my thumbs won't hurt, my elbows won't hurt, my shoulders won't hurt, my jaw won't hurt...this shot stings but far less than my body hurts."

You should be finished then, remove the syringe, place the ice pack back on for maybe 30 seconds, and dispose of the needle...now finish your coffee.

You can do it

pj, you didn't mention if you're using the sure-click or the regular syringe. I use the sure-click so the injection process is a little different and you're not able to slow down the flow. I think I prefer this way, it's a little like ripping off a bandaid...hurts but you get over it quick. I try counting up seconds, because after about 20 seconds the sure-click gives you the second click to let you know you're done.

I inject on the front of the thigh, alternating sides and lower/higher on the thigh (giving me 4 spots to alternate with). I always put gauze or a bandaid on with a little pressure at the end so I don't get a bruise (only had one). For some reason I have found my injection site reactions (red blotchy, sometimes itchy skin) form the same "footprint" as the bandage I put on it, so I've gone from a piece of gauze with tape down to a tiny band-aid and had less of a reaction.

Unfortunately, I've been on Enbrel for 4-1/2 long months with no help, and I'm pretty sure my RD is going to switch me to infusions in a couple of weeks. But you should see some sort of improvement by 3 months at the latest.

Good luck! And remember, if you have any questions, not only can you post here, but Enbrel has a phone number so you can get immediate answers.