Arava
ARAVA is indicated in adults for the treatment of active rheumatoid arthritis (RA):
- to reduce signs and symptoms
- to inhibit structural damage as evidenced by X-ray erosions and joint space narrowing
- to improve physical function.
How to Use
Use Arava as directed by your doctor.
- Arava may be taken with or without food.
- It may take 4 weeks or more to notice any improvement while taking Arava.
WARNING:
Pregnancy must be excluded before the start of treatment with leflunomide. This drug must not be used during pregnancy, nor by women of childbearing age who are not using reliable birth control (contraception). Unless female leflunomide users go through a certain process to eliminate this drug from their body, pregnancy must be avoided for 2 years after this drug has been stopped.
Arava Side Effects
Diarrhea, nausea, and dizziness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed Arava (leflunomide) 20mg because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using Arava (leflunomide) 20mg do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: cough, numbness/tingling of hands/feet, hair loss, chest pain, fast/pounding heartbeat, increased thirst/urination, muscle cramp/pain, mental/mood changes, vision changes.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: easy bruising/bleeding, unusual growths/lumps, swollen glands (lymph nodes), unexplained weight loss, unusual tiredness.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
Overdose symptoms may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood problems, and liver problems.
STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
