Can Enbrel (etanercept) cause foul-smelling urine?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: April 29, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

Enbrel (etanercept) is not typically known to cause foul-smelling urine as a direct side effect, but it may increase the susceptibility to urinary tract infections (UTIs) which can cause foul-smelling urine. The provided evidence does not directly address the relationship between Enbrel and foul-smelling urine [ 1 ]. However, it discusses the use of etanercept in the treatment of adult onset Still's disease, highlighting its efficacy and potential side effects, such as injection site reactions and infectious complications [ 1 ]. If you're experiencing foul-smelling urine while taking Enbrel, it is more likely due to a UTI rather than the medication itself. Key points to consider include:

  • Enbrel works by suppressing parts of the immune system, which can increase susceptibility to infections, including UTIs.
  • Symptoms of a UTI can include foul-smelling urine, burning during urination, increased frequency, urgency, or cloudy appearance.
  • If you notice these symptoms, you should contact your healthcare provider promptly for proper evaluation and treatment.
  • Your doctor may need to test your urine to check for infection and prescribe appropriate antibiotics if necessary.
  • It's crucial not to discontinue Enbrel without medical advice, but your doctor might temporarily adjust your treatment if you have an active infection.
  • Preventive measures such as staying well-hydrated and practicing good hygiene can help reduce the risk of UTIs while on immunosuppressive medications like Enbrel.

From the Research

Enbrel and Urine Odor

  • There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that links Enbrel to foul urine odor.
  • The studies focus on the use of Enbrel in treating various autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, and its safety profile 2, 3, 4, 5.
  • One study discusses urinary tract infections (UTIs) and their diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, but it does not mention Enbrel or its potential effects on urine odor 6.
  • Therefore, based on the available evidence, there is no clear connection between Enbrel and foul urine odor.

References

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.