Examples

How It Works

Biologics block harmful responses from the body's immune system that lead to the symptoms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Why It Is Used

Biologics are used to treat moderate to severe JIA symptoms and to prevent joint damage, particularly in people who have had side effects or poor results from methotrexate treatment.

Biologics are usually used after nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and methotrexate have been tried. A biologic is often used at the same time as these other medicines, especially to treat polyarticular JIA and extended oligoarticular JIA.¹

Biologics may also be tried when eye inflammation has not improved after trying other drugs such as corticosteroids and mydriatics.

How Well It Works

Etanercept is most widely studied for juvenile idiopathic arthritis. In general, biologics improve symptoms, help prevent bone and cartilage damage, and may even help with healing.²

Side Effects

All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine your child takes. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with the medicine.

Here are some important things to think about:

• Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
• Side effects may go away after your child takes the medicine for a while.
• If side effects still bother your child and you wonder if he or she should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower the dose or change the medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Call 911 or other emergency services right away if your child has:

• Trouble breathing.
• Hives.
• Swelling of his or her face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor right away if your child has:

• Signs of illness or infection, such as chills, cough, or fever.
• A rash on his or her head, face, or belly.

Common side effects of this medicine include:

• Nausea and vomiting.
• Stomach pain.
• Painful throat.
• Redness, itching, or swelling at the injection site.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

Warnings about serious side effects of biologics have been issued. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the drug’s manufacturers have warned about: