An antirheumatic drug.
A drug used to treat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Etanercept (Enbrel) is used in cases of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. Etanercept is designed to block the action of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a protein that causes the joint inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Because it compromises the ability of the body to fight infection, etanercept should not be taken by people with chronic infections or weakened immune systems.