Oregon Rheumatology Alliance 
Amgen’s new Rhode Island manufacturing facility has been approved and is now in full production. The Enbrel enrollment program is ending effective February 1st, and patients will no longer need an Enbrel enrollment form or an Enbrel number. We are happy to report that Enbrel will be fully available for patients without any special requirements, except insurance pre-authorizations when necessary.
The ENLIVEN support program, which includes newsletters, reimbursement assistance, free sharps containers, travel coolers and other patient assistance devices is still in full operation. Patients can use 1-888-436-2735 to obtain more information in that regard.
Handheld palm devices are becoming more useful. Regence of Oregon announced that its preferred medication list is now available through www.ePocrates.com. Its new formulary can be downloaded at that site. Also, PDR information from the Physicians Desk Reference can also be downloaded into your palm pilot through the PDR website.
Adalimumab (Humira) has been approved for use in rheumatoid arthritis. As a monoclonal antibody which blocks TNF, it is indicated for reducing signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and inhibiting progression of structural damage in adults with moderate to severe rheumatoid disease. The medication can be used alone or in combination with methotrexate or other DMARDs.
Four trials of more that a total of 2,000 RA patients were used as the basis of efficacy and safety data for approval.
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