Spondylitis

Enbrel[R] (etanercept) is the first biologic agent recommended for approval by the Arthritis Advisory Committee of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). AS is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting primarily the lower back and pelvis. Vertebral fusion ,nay occur over time, leading to tremendous pain and disability. Other joints involved include those of the shoulders, knees, and ankles. The mainstay of AS treatment is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents.

Enbrel is the only fully human anti-TNF receptor approved for treatment of psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. By inhibiting TNF, one of the mediators in the inflammatory cascade, Enbrel reduces joint inflammation and improves patient symptoms.

Enbrel is manufactured and distributed by Amgen and Wyeth Pharmaceuticals.

COPYRIGHT 2003 Journal of Drugs in Dermatology
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