Arava (Leflunomide)

Arava Information

Arava Indications

• Inflammation
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Joint pain

Arava Warnings/Precautions

• Disease of the immune system
• Serious infections – Arava may lessen the body’s ability to combat infection
• Liver disease including Hepatitis B or C
• Renal disease – May increase the chance of side effects

Arava is not safe for use by pregnant women. It contains chemicals that may be harmful to the unborn baby and may result to birth defects. Women of childbearing age are also suggested to use only safe and reliable contraceptives before incurring this medication.

It is uncertain if Arava passes into breast milk. Nonetheless, nursing moms are not advised to take this drug.

Children, 18 years of age and below, are prohibited of taking Arava though there is not enough information provided as to its effects compared with other age groups. Likewise, it is not known how Arava works for the elderly as it has not been specifically studied for older adults. Various side effects and other problems may arise.

Men taking Arava are also recommended to use condoms during sexual intercourse as a form of birth control. No study has been done to answer as to how Arava may affect children of men taking the drug at the time of conception. In case you decide to father a child, have a talk with your doctor and stop this medication.

Arava Intake Instructions

• Adults – 100mg once a day for three days, then 20mg once a day
• Children – Dosage is decided by the doctor

Arava must be taken as indicated in the label. However, the dose may differ from every patient. Do not change the dose unless directed by your doctor.

Arava Missed Dose

Arava Overdose

Arava Side Effects

• Bloody or cloudy urine
• Chest congestion
• Cough
• Difficult, burning, or painful urination
• Difficulty or pain in breathing
• Dizziness
• Fever
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and/or vomi ting
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Yellow eyes and/or skin

Less Common,

• Burning feeling in the chest or stomach
• Burning, prickling, or tingling sensation in the fingers and/or toes
• Chest pain
• Diarrhea
• Fast heartbeat
• Indigestion
• Joint or muscle pain or stiffness
• Pounding heartbeat
• Severe stomach pain
• Shortness of breath
• Tenderness in the stomach area
• Unusual tiredness or weakness

Other side effects may likely arise. These are expected as the body adjusts to the medication. However, should these conditions continue to be bothersome, see your doctor.

More Common,

• Back pain
• Hair loss
• Heartburn
• Skin rash
• Stomach pain
• Unexplained weight loss

Less Common,

• Acne
• Anxiety
• Constipation
• Decreased appetite
• Dry mouth
• Gas
• Irritation or soreness of the mouth
• Skin itching
• Pain or burning in the throat
• Red or irritated eyes
• Runny nose

For other side effects that you may experience and is not included in the list, talk with your doctor.

Arava Drug Interactions

Do not have immunizations or vaccinations without consulting your doctor first while under medication or after treatment of Arava.

Tell your doctor if you are taking other prescribed or over-the-counter medicines. Change of dose or additional precautions may be necessary.

Buy Arava

Arava can be bought through our Online Pharmacy Escrow Service or at any Canadian Pharmacy selling online prescriptions.