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Enbrel & TTC Options
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LPattenden
#1 Posted : Thursday, October 28, 2010 9:14:32 PM Quote
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Joined: 2/10/2010
Posts: 1
Hi there

Just wanted to ask if anyone out there had remained on Enbrel when trying to conceive? I know that the advise is to come off the drug 3-6 months before hand but have seen various articles on the internet where some people have stayed on it until they discover they are expecting. I know MTX is a definite no no but from what i have read, Enbrel is not in the same class?

I have been on enbrel for 1.5 years and have just got my flare ups under control, so am petrified coming off of it will start it all up again. Also, I'm worried that I will not be able to concieve anyway if I am in pain and under stress from recurring flare ups. Steroids failed to help too which is making me even more concerned that i won't be able to rely on those either...

thank you!
Liz x
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LynW
#2 Posted : Thursday, October 28, 2010 9:44:19 PM Quote
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Joined: 12/4/2009
Posts: 2,127
Location: Thornton Cleveleys
Hi Liz

Welcome to the forum!

I did read something recently about this I'll try and find it again! There are studies ongoing on this but in the meantime I believe the advice is to stop Enbrel before TTC and remain off it until after the birth. Enbrel doesn't stay in the system very long, couple of months from my experience of stopping, but then you are left with finding a suitable alternative. It might be possible to put you on a DMARD prior to conceiving; often symptoms go into remission during pregnancy and no medication at all is needed.

This is definitely one for your rheumatologist as they will need to be involved in your care throughout any pregnancy. The choice of appropriate medication is an important one for your peace of mind and control of the disease.

I wish you luck,

Lyn x
My son, Ian, completed the BUPA Great North Run on 15th September running for the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS). You can read his story at http://www.justgiving.com/ianlukewilson

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Rose-B
#3 Posted : Thursday, October 28, 2010 9:55:11 PM Quote
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Joined: 4/20/2010
Posts: 1,749
Location: Somerset

Hello Liz,

Hello and welcome to the Forum - Sorry you have RA at an early age. I do not
have the answer to your query though, although Lynns advise is great as always.

You could also ring the RA helpline they could help you.

RoseSmile
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jenni_b
#4 Posted : Wednesday, November 03, 2010 3:59:46 PM Quote
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Joined: 12/3/2009
Posts: 2,237
Location: nr Southampton
hello lizSmile

there are people who ttc on the anti-tnfs but it is not advised. normally the idea is that you are well controlled for a while and then they taper the drugs down till you are off.

for mtx that is normally 3-6 mths.

the anti tnfs there is not good evidence for so the drs are careful although I have known women have babies successfully on enbrel and humira. In fact some women with no immune disease at all who are TTC will go to private clinics for anti-tnfs as there is some research that says it can help women with the "natural killer cells" in their womb. (contraversial stuff).

There are other drug options of course that are safter during ttc- hydroxcylorquine, sulphazalazine, azothyaprin etc.

have they talked to you about these?

Jenni x

PS I adopted my older 2 and have a birth child who is now 3
how to be a velvet bulldoser
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