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Arthritis drug
Enbrel (etanercept) may worsen congestive heart failure (CHF),
so doctors are being warned to "use caution" when
prescribing this drug to patients with CHF.
The warning comes
after two large clinical trials meant to evaluate the use
of Enbrel in the treatment of CHF were stopped ahead of schedule
due to lack of efficacy. Data from one of these trials indicated
that patients taking Enbrel tended to have a worsening of
the condition.
Congestive heart
failure is a chronic condition that affects the heart’s
ability to pump blood efficiently. The loss of pumping ability
allows fluid to accumulate in the lungs and tissues, causing
fatigue and shortness of breath.
As written on the
drug’s label, allergic reactions to Enbrel are not uncommon.
Reactions include angioedema (swelling in the deep layers
of the skin) and urticaria (hives), among others. Serious
infections have also been associated with the drug.
It is noted that
if serious allergic reactions or infections develop, use of
the drug should be discontinued.
Reuters
London January 8, 2003
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