Severe Arthritis Drug Wins FDA Approval

A genetically engineered drug won government approval to help some of the hardest-to-treat sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis. Immunex Corp.’s Enbrel can fight debilitating symptoms in advanced rheumatoid arthritis patients--and appears to cause fewer serious side effects than older therapies. “This product can significantly reduce pain and swollen joints that have restricted their normal daily activities for years,� said acting Food and Drug Administration Acting Commissioner Michael Friedman. Immunex said Enbrel, known chemically as etanercept, will be on pharmacy shelves within days. Patients require injections of the drug twice weekly.