Arava (Leflunomide)
Brand Name: Arava
Drug Name: Leflunomide
Strength: 20mg
Packaging: 30 tablets
Form: Tabs
Manufacturer:
Country of Origin: New Zealand
Uses
Leflunomide is a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It is an anti-inflammatory that reduces joint swelling and arthritic pain, as well as reducing the damage done to joints and any long-term damage.
Dosage & Administration
Take leflunomide as directed by your health care provider, with a full glass of water. You can take leflunomide with or without food.
It is likely your health care provider will want to monitor progress regularly while taking leflunomide. Make sure you attend all evaluation sessions.
Side Effects
Potential side effects of leflunomide include muscle aches and leg cramps, joint disorders, low levels of potassium, abdominal pain or an upset stomach, vomiting, hair loss, itching, weight loss, respiratory or urinary tract infections, mouth ulcers, high blood pressure, headaches, a rash, dizziness, bronchitis and an increased cough. If symptoms persist or get worse, contact your health care provider.
Stop taking leflunomide, and seek medical treatment or contact your health care provider if you experience serious side effects including an allergic reaction that causes difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, closing of the throat, or hives, jaundice, dark urine or pale stools, unexplained fatigue, signs of a fever, unexplained bruising or bleeding, chills, a sore throat, sores in your mouth, or a skin rash.
Precautions
Do not take leflunomide if you are pregnant, or breastfeeding and you must avoid becoming pregnant while taking leflunomide. If you have any questions or concerns about this, discuss them with your health care provider. Leflunomide stays in your system for a long time after you cease taking it so it is recommended you do not start trying to conceive for at least 2 years after you complete treatment.
Tell your health care provider if you have a liver disorder, bone marrow dysplasia, severe immune deficiency or an uncontrolled infection.
Make sure your health care provider knows about any other prescription, over-the-counter or herbal remedies you are taking. Leflunomide can interact badly especially with warfarin that thins your blood, tolbutamide for the control of diabetes, and phenytoin for epilepsy.
If you overdose on leflunomide, or suspect an overdose, seek urgent medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose include abdominal pain, blood and liver problems, and diarrhea.
Avoid alcohol consumption while taking leflunomide as it can accelerate damage your liver.
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