Daughter starting Enbrel

[Guest guest]

My 3 1/2 year old has not been well controlled on plaquenil and

meth. lately, so now her rheumy wants to start Enbrel. We knew ahead

this might be coming, so it's not a shock. But, I would like any

advice from you that are already there, how you dealt with the

whole " giving injections " thing. I mean, I know, based on lab work

days, that my daughter is going to be really afraid and really

upset! I'd like to know, pain-wise, do you think that the Enbrel

hurts less-same-more than lab blood draws (our lab does use the kids

butterfly needle, and are really good at it). Actually, labs have

been better the last two months, since she started watching. Knowing

exactly what is happening helps her. Anyways, as we wait to find out

about insurance covering it, and what copay we have to try to come

up with, I have some time to gather info. and get prepared. Do any

of you think that the Emla works? I put it on 30 minutes prior to

blood draws, but it just starts the anxiety earlier, and she gets

worked up. So, I quit using it, and I think the blood draws are less

stressful, as the 30 minutes prior anxiety is gone. But, I'm

wondering if the Enbrel shots are painful, should I go ahead and use

it? Thoughts, suggestions, advice??

Thanks to you all ahead of time for your help!

Jacalyn

mom to nna, 3 1/2 Poly