Key takeaways
Orencia (abatacept) and Enbrel (etanercept) are used to treat autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Orencia can be given as an infusion or an injection, while Enbrel is only available as an injection. Orencia is also used for juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and to prevent graft-versus-host disease, whereas Enbrel is used for plaque psoriasis and ankylosing spondylitis in addition to RA and PsA. Both are only available as a brand-name product, making them potentially more expensive. Both medications can increase your risk of infections, but Enbrel also has warnings about potential cancers and nervous system effects. Both medications require careful handling and storage, with Enbrel being able to stay at room temperature for up to 14 days.
