Arava is a medication used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a painful condition that involves the immune system failing to recognize the body and attacking healthy tissues around the joints. This drug reduces the joint damage, pain, and swelling. Leflunomide can also help you move better by reducing joint damage.

How does Arava work?

Leflunomide is an immunosuppressant and reduces inflammation by reducing the production of immune cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are responsible for swelling and inflammation.

• This medicine is taken by mouth once a day.
• This medication can be taken with or without food.
• You may be instructed to take a higher dose for the first 3 days of treatment.
• Take this drug regularly to see the best results.
• After you finish treatment with this medication, you may be prescribed cholestyramine to help remove leflunomide from the body. Without this post-treatment drug, leflunomide may remain in the body for up to 2 years.

Before taking Arava, tell your doctor if you have:

• Immune disorders like HIV
• Current/recent infections
• Bone marrow or blood disorder
• Kidney disease
• High blood pressure
• Lung disease

If you regularly consume marijuana or alcohol, taking Arava can make you feel dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or anything that requires alertness. It is best to avoid alcoholic beverages.

This drug can increase your risk of developing serious infections, so make sure you regularly wash your hands to prevent the spread of infections.

It is not known whether or not a man’s sperm is affected by Arava. If you are looking to father a child, it is usually advised to stop taking this medication. Consult your doctor before stopping this treatment.

Some common side effects of Arava can include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• A mild rash

Tell your doctor if you experience the following serious effects:

• Cough
• Numbness/tingling of hands and feet
• Hair loss
• Chest pain
• Fast/pounding heartbeat
• Unusual growths or lumps
• Unexplained weight loss
• Raised blood pressure

What is the typical dosage of Arava?

The tablets for Arava typically come in 10-20 milligram forms. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

Can I take Arava if I’m pregnant?

Arava may cause birth defects in the children of both men and women. If you are considering having a child, talk to your doctor before beginning this medication. This drug can also pass into breast milk and have undesirable effects on the nursing child. It is advised not to breastfeed while taking Arava.