New to Enbrel - questions...

[princesstwinsmom]

I started Enbrel last week - today I'm due for my fourth injection. One of the areas I had the most trouble with my PA was my jaw. It improved quite a bit (not 100%) with just the methotrexate I started taking in March. However, since starting Enbrel, my jaw has gotten significantly worse - stiffer, more painful (causing excruciating headaches). Could this just be a coincidence? My hands seem to be improving, but the jaw pain could definitely be a deal-breaker for me. I'd rather have joint pain in my thumbs than this blinding headache all the time.

[kestrel2008]

I have the same jaw issue and have been on Enbrel for several years. Enbrel takes a good couple of months before it comes on to full strength. The problem is more likely if you went off something to start the Enbrel. If you stopped the MTX and started Enbrel then you end up unprotected for a bit while one goes away and the other comes on line. Hang in there.. Enbrel works, but you have to give it time.

[easydoesit]

Isn't one of the most common side effects from Enbrel headaches?

Perhaps the jaw pain is not actually the cause of the headaches?

Just a thought.

[princesstwinsmom]

I'm still taking MTX - rheumy just added Enbrel.

easy - that's a good thought. The pain is identical to what I was experiencing before MTX, though. I've had migraines for years, so when the jaw pain began last fall and caused the headaches, there was a definite difference in the feel - if that makes any sense? It's definitely related.

I see my rheumy again on the 26th, so I'll keep plugging along until then and see what she has to say. I'm SO hopeful about Enbrel that I want to give it a fair shake.

[easydoesit]

Ok. I'm sorry to hear that. Maybe the Enbrel is taking the inflammation down further and now the joint is functioning different (because it's not inflamed) and so it's causing pain? Just another thought.

I actually have problems with my left TMJ joint too, though thankfully it has not lead to more than slight headaches in the past and does not flare often. I'm also starting on Enbrel on monday so I'll let you know if I experience anything similar.

[RichJ]

I have the same jaw issue and have been on Enbrel for several years. Enbrel takes a good couple of months before it comes on to full strength. The problem is more likely if you went off something to start the Enbrel. If you stopped the MTX and started Enbrel then you end up unprotected for a bit while one goes away and the other comes on line. Hang in there.. Enbrel works, but you have to give it time.
hi kestrel2008,
welcome to the p family. you have meet some of the wounderful people on here and will find alot of great info. welcome and nice to meet you.

have a good weekend all

richard