Does leflunomide have side effects?

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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 this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.

What does the drug Arava do?

What is Leflunomide (Arava®)? Leflunomide is an anti-inflammatory agent used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. It works by suppressing the blood cells that cause inflammation. The brand name for this medicine is Arava®.

How long does it take for Arava to start working?

Most patients start to feel the positive effects of leflunomide at 4-8 weeks, with maximum benefit at 3-6 months. Side effects can occur earlier.

Does Arava make you tired?

Leflunomide oral tablet does not cause drowsiness, but it can cause other side effects.

Does leflunomide affect sleep?

Can Arava cause hair loss?

Hair loss is a common side effect of Arava. Keep in mind that rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which Arava is used to treat, can cause hair loss. So it’s possible you may have hair loss due to your condition.

Can you drink alcohol with Arava?

Do not drink alcohol whilst you are taking leflunomide – it will increase the risk of damage to your liver.

Can Arava cause liver damage?

Arava can cause serious liver problems, including liver failure. In rare cases, this can be fatal.

What is the difference between Arava and leflunomide?

Arava is a brand-name medication that contains the drug, leflunomide. After you take Arava, leflunomide is broken down by your body into its active metabolite*, teriflunomide. Leflunomide is available as a generic medication in certain strengths.

What is the active drug in Arava?

* Leflunomide is the active drug in Arava. The most common type of arthritis in children is called juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). (Idiopathic means the cause of the condition is unknown.)

What is the recommended dose of Arava for the treatment of hepatitis?

For patients who are at low risk for ARAVA-associated hepatotoxicity and ARAVA-associated myelosuppression the recommended ARAVA loading dosage is 100 mg once daily for 3 days. Subsequently administer 20 mg once daily.

What is the chemical name for leflunomide?

The chemical name for leflunomide is N-(4´-trifluoromethylphenyl)-5-methylisoxazole-4-carboxamide. It has an empirical formula C 12H 9F 3N 2O 2, a molecular weight of 270.2 and the following structural formula: ARAVA is available for oral administration as tablets containing 10, 20, or 100 mg of active drug.