Enbrel and Breastfeeding

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During the first trimester of my pregnancy, my arthritis was treated with prednisone with little success. After consulting with many doctors about the potential risks, I chose to start Enbrel again in the second trimester. I now take a injection once every 10-14 days whereas the regular dose is an injection every 3-4 days.

Although I have required close monitoring, my pregnancy has gone very well and my fetus appears to be thriving.

Now that I am getting close to delivery, I have tried speaking with my doctors about the possibility of breastfeeding while taking these occasional doses of Enbrel, but they have not been able to give me any information. I know that there is very little information out there, but I have read several encouraging items online that lead me to believe nursing while taking enbrel is possible. I know the half-life of the drug is relatively short. I am wondering if I were to not breastfeed in the few days following an injection, but breastfeed the rest of the time, is it likely that my baby would benefit from this? I am willing to pump to keep up my supply if there isn't too much risk to the baby. I'd like to be able to breastfeed for 3 months if at all possible.

Any thoughts?

Thank you, Alice

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