Foods and Medications to Avoid While Taking Enbrel

Introduction to Enbrel

Enbrel (etanercept) is a biologic medication used to treat certain autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and plaque psoriasis. It works by blocking tumor necrosis factor (TNF), an inflammatory protein involved in autoimmune disease.

While Enbrel can help manage symptoms of these inflammatory disorders, it does come with some precautions regarding food and beverages to avoid while taking the medication.

How Enbrel Works

Enbrel is a TNF blocker medication. It binds to TNF proteins to prevent them from attaching to receptors on cells and triggering inflammation. By inhibiting TNF, Enbrel can reduce pain, swelling, and damage to joints and skin tissues.

Enbrel comes in two forms - an injectable solution given under the skin, and an injectable autoinjector pen. Patients are typically prescribed one or two doses per week.

Time to Take Effect

It may take 2-12 weeks after starting Enbrel to notice the effects. Symptoms should improve over time with regular use.

Duration of Effects

A single dose of Enbrel provides about 1-4 days of effects. This is why it is dosed 1-2 times per week to maintain therapeutic levels.

Foods and Drinks to Avoid with Enbrel

While Enbrel itself does not have major food restrictions, there are some considerations for foods and beverages to avoid to prevent interactions with other medications and reduce infection risk.

Avoid Grapefruit and Grapefruit Juice

Grapefruit can impact enzymes involved in drug metabolism. It’s best to avoid grapefruit juice and fresh grapefruit while on Enbrel, as this may cause levels of the drug to fluctuate in the body.

Limit Alcohol Intake

Drinking alcohol can potentially worsen liver problems and other side effects of Enbrel. Heavy drinking may also negatively impact the immune system. It’s best to limit alcohol intake to occasional light drinking while taking Enbrel.

Avoid Unpasteurized Milk and Juice

Raw or unpasteurized dairy products and juices may contain harmful bacteria that pose infection risks. This includes raw milk, some soft cheeses, and unpasteurized cider. Stick to pasteurized products while using Enbrel.

Avoid Undercooked Meat, Eggs, Fish

Be sure to cook meats, fish, and eggs thoroughly to avoid foodborne illnesses. Raw or undercooked animal products can harbor dangerous bacteria when the immune system is compromised by medications like Enbrel.

Wash Fruits and Vegetables Thoroughly

Fruits and vegetables should be washed well before eating to remove any lingering pesticides or bacteria. This reduces the risk of ingesting anything that may cause an infection.

Avoid Sushi and Raw Shellfish

Raw fish and shellfish, including sushi, oysters, and clams, also pose a higher risk of infection to those taking Enbrel. Cooking these items kills potential pathogens. It's safest to avoid raw seafood when using this medication.

Foods with Health Benefits

While there are some dietary restrictions with Enbrel, focusing on nutrient-dense anti-inflammatory foods can be beneficial. Some healthy options to include are:

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids that can help reduce joint inflammation. Aim for 2-3 servings per week.

Colorful Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and veggies with vibrant colors provide antioxidants and polyphenols that have anti-inflammatory effects. Aim for a variety, including berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, tomatoes, bell peppers, and more.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are great plant-based proteins that also provide anti-inflammatory minerals like magnesium and healthy fats. Add them to salads or snack on a handful daily.

Olive Oil

Olive oil contains oleocanthal, which acts as a natural anti-inflammatory compound. Use it as your main cooking oil and drizzle over dishes.

Green Tea

Green tea has epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), an antioxidant that may help regulate inflammatory responses. Sip on unsweetened green tea throughout the day.

Herbs and Spices

Garlic, turmeric, ginger, rosemary, and other herbs/spices contain beneficial compounds that can help reduce inflammation. Incorporate them regularly when cooking.

Foods and Medications to Avoid

Certain foods and medications may interact with Enbrel or increase side effect risks:

Immunosuppressants

Using Enbrel with other immunosuppressants like cyclosporine or azathioprine raises infection risks. Combination therapy needs close monitoring.

Live Vaccines

Live or attenuated vaccines, such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), varicella, zoster, and yellow fever vaccines are not recommended while on Enbrel due to infection risks.

Sulfasalazine

Taking sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) may reduce the effectiveness of Enbrel. These medications should not be used together.

Anakinra

Using the RA medication anakinra (Kineret) with Enbrel can increase the risk of serious infections and other side effects. Combining is not advised.

Abatacept

The drug abatacept (Orencia) may interact with Enbrel, raising chances of allergic reactions. Using both medications together is not recommended.

Rilonacept

Co-administration of rilonacept (Arcalyst), another TNF blocker, with Enbrel could increase infection risks. It's advised to avoid combining these medications.

Precautions When Taking Enbrel

To use Enbrel safely and effectively, be sure to take note of these food and medication precautions:

• Avoid grapefruit, raw dairy, raw meat/eggs, raw seafood.
• Cook foods thoroughly and wash produce well.
• Limit alcohol intake to occasional light drinking.
• Check for interactions with other medications you are taking.
• Stay up-to-date on vaccinations, except for live virus vaccines.
• Communicate with your healthcare provider about any side effects or concerns.

Being cautious with your diet and medications can help reduce side effects while allowing you to experience the full benefits of Enbrel treatment.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.