WARNING

Arava (Generic Leflunomide) is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. Here are some key risks associated with its use:

• Liver Damage: Arava can cause liver toxicity. Regular liver function tests are needed to monitor for potential damage.
• Infections: It can suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections.
• Pregnancy Risks: It is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Some people experience nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.
• Blood Pressure Changes: It can affect blood pressure, so monitoring is essential.
• Bone Marrow Suppression: Rarely, it can affect blood cell production, leading to anemia or other blood disorders.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and monitoring while using Arava.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Arava (Generic Leflunomide) is prescribed primarily for:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: To manage symptoms such as pain, swelling, and joint damage. It helps to reduce inflammation and slow disease progression.
• Psoriatic Arthritis: It can be used to alleviate symptoms of this inflammatory arthritis that affects some people with psoriasis.
• Other Autoimmune Conditions: In some cases, it may be used for other autoimmune disorders where inflammation plays a key role, although this is less common.

Leflunomide works by inhibiting the proliferation of immune cells that contribute to inflammation and joint damage, helping to control disease activity and improve quality of life.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how it should be used:

• Dosage: Typically, it’s taken as a daily oral tablet. The usual starting dose is 100 mg once daily for the first three days, followed by 20 mg once daily. Your doctor might adjust the dose based on your response and tolerance.
• Administration: Take Arava with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole; do not crush or chew them.
• Adherence: It’s important to take Arava consistently at the same time each day to maintain even levels in your blood.
• Monitoring: Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor liver function and other potential side effects.
• Discontinuation: If you need to stop taking Arava, your doctor will provide a plan to help clear the medication from your system, as it can remain in your body for a long time.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them if you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects.

Other uses for this medicine

In addition to its primary uses for rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, Arava may sometimes be prescribed for:

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): It may be used off-label for treating lupus, especially in patients with severe forms.
• Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Occasionally used in children with this condition, though it’s less common.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Arava:

• Liver Function: Regular monitoring of liver function is essential, as Arava can cause liver damage. Report any symptoms of liver problems, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes), dark urine, or abdominal pain.
• Pregnancy: Arava is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception and discuss their plans with their doctor. If pregnancy occurs, consult your doctor immediately.
• Infections: Arava can suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Take precautions to avoid infections and contact your healthcare provider if you notice symptoms like fever or sore throat.
• Blood Pressure: Monitor blood pressure regularly, as Arava can affect blood pressure levels.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications and supplements you’re taking, as Arava can interact with certain drugs.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Be aware of potential gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal pain, and report any severe or persistent issues to your doctor.
• Bone Marrow Suppression: Although rare, Arava can affect bone marrow function. Regular blood tests may be needed to monitor blood cell levels.
• Stopping the Medication: If you need to stop taking Arava, your doctor will provide a specific plan to help clear the medication from your system, as it can remain in your body for an extended period.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and report any side effects or concerns promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Arava. However, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can help manage any gastrointestinal side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider or a nutritionist if you have any concerns about your diet while taking Arava.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you miss a dose of Arava, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose; do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Consult Your Doctor: Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding missed doses.
• Regular Schedule: To avoid missing doses, try to take Arava at the same time each day.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Arava (Generic Leflunomide) can cause a range of side effects. Here are some common and serious ones to be aware of:

Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches can occur.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak.
• Skin Rash: Itchy or rashy skin.

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver Damage: Elevated liver enzymes or symptoms of liver problems like jaundice, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
• Infections: Increased susceptibility to infections due to immune system suppression. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, or chills.
• Blood Disorders: Rarely, it can affect blood cell production, leading to anemia or other blood-related issues. Symptoms include unusual bleeding or bruising, or feeling unusually weak or tired.
• Pregnancy Risks: Harm to the fetus if taken during pregnancy, including birth defects. It’s crucial to avoid pregnancy while on Arava.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Rare but serious allergic reactions can include swelling, difficulty breathing, or severe rash.
• Elevated Blood Pressure: Monitor blood pressure regularly, as Arava can sometimes cause hypertension.
• Report Symptoms: Notify your healthcare provider if you experience any severe or persistent side effects.
• Regular Monitoring: Ensure regular blood tests and liver function tests as advised by your doctor to monitor for potential side effects.

Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your specific health needs and conditions.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Arava:

Storage:

• Store Arava at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture.
• Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed.
• Store in a dry place, out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Do not dispose of Arava in the toilet or sink. Instead, use a drug take-back program if available. Check with your pharmacy or local waste disposal facilities for safe disposal options.
• Some medications have specific disposal instructions or programs. Follow any guidelines provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency Symptoms: Symptoms of an overdose might include severe headache, shortness of breath, or high blood pressure. However, an overdose is rare because the dosage is usually carefully monitored.
• Action: If an overdose is suspected, contact your healthcare provider or local emergency services immediately. Provide details about the amount of Aranesp taken and any symptoms experienced.
• Healthcare Provider: Call your healthcare provider for guidance on any severe or unusual symptoms.
• Poison Control: For immediate assistance, you can also contact a poison control center.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Check-ups: Regularly visit your healthcare provider for monitoring of liver function, blood cell counts, and other health indicators as prescribed.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, supplements, or herbs you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Pregnancy and Contraception: Be aware of the risks to pregnancy and use effective contraception. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
• Long-Term Use: If you are on Arava for an extended period, regular follow-up appointments and tests will be necessary to monitor for any long-term effects.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose. Do not double up doses.

Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and consult them for any specific concerns or questions about your treatment with Arava.