Arava (Leflunomide)

What is Arava?

Arava or leflunomide is a pyrimidine synthesis inhibitor.

What is Arava used for?

Arava is prescribed for lessening the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and for making the body capable of preventing any joint damage.

How does Arava work?

Arava works by controlling the enzymes in the body that result in abnormal tissue growth and development leading to the condition of rheumatoid arthritis and other joint related troubles.

How to use Arava

Arava should be taken as per the directions of the doctor. You should check the label for instructions regarding the doses. Do not try to experiment with the doses and if any doubt prevails, contact your physician. Arava can be taken with or without food. Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day.

You will be able to notice improvement in four to six weeks, so stick to your daily regimen and do not take any other medicine, unless asked to.

Arava warnings and precautions

Contact your doctor before taking Arava, if you are suffering from some immunodeficiency disorders.  Inform your physician, if you are allergic and have any pre-existing diseases like hepatitis, kidney disease, a history of TB (tuberculosis), blood cell disorder, weak immune system, bone marrow disorder or some other problem.

It is specifically recommended that pregnant and lactating females should be extra alert, before starting with Arava. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine. If you plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor in advance about the use of this medicine.

Take Arava only after an expert’s approval. Getting any kind of vaccination during the course is opposed by the doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Arava dose?

If you have missed your Arava dose, you should take one immediately. But if it is time for your second dose, skip the missed one and do not take two tablets to make up for the skipped dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Arava overdose?

If you have taken an Arava overdose, you should contact your doctor. It is not advisable to try any remedies on your own.

Arava interactions

Firstly, it is very important that the doctor, who prescribes you Arava, knows about your medical history in detail. He must know about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you use.

Taking expert advice is necessary for avoiding any interaction in the body with some food or some other medicine that you are already taking and it varies from person to person. Before taking Arava, tell your doctor if you take medicines for tuberculosis, birth control, arthritis, cancer, cholesterol, HIV/AIDS, or seizure.

Arava side effects

If you follow the directed instructions while taking Arava, side effects are less likely to bother you, but in some cases minor side effects occur. Avara side effects include diarrhea, dry skin, headache, indigestion, loss of appetite, sinus infections, urinary tract infection and vomiting, in some cases. These side effects disappear and are light, but if they stay for long, contact your doctor.

In some patients, Avara has shown some serious side effects like severe allergic reactions, difficulty in breathing, peeling skin, fever, muscle contractions, stomach pains, and yellowing of the eyes or skin. Also, in extreme cases, it can result in weakness, serious liver damages and unusual tiredness. Such symptoms need immediate expert attention.