Arava (Leflunomide)
Arava Information
Arava, with the generic name of
Leflunomide, is specially formulated to provide physical relief from
inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain as caused by . Arava acts by stopping the production of too much
immune cells causing inflammation and swelling in the body.
Arava Indications
Arava is prescribed to patients showing
signs of rheumatism as listed below:
- Inflammation
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Joint pain
Arava Warnings/Precautions
It is best to have a discussion
with your doctor prior to taking Arava as there may be cases when it
is not advisable to take the drug. Let your doctor know of any
allergy from food, preservatives, dyes, or other substances, and if
you are experiencing medical conditions such as:
- 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
Average oral dosage (tablets) for
:
- 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
Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
Should you forget to take the scheduled dosage until the following
day, skip it and proceed with the next one. Arava must not be double
dosed.
Arava Overdose
If symptoms of Overdosage are suspected,
consult your doctor for the proper medical action.
Arava Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience
any of these unwanted 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
Refrain from drinking alcohol while
taking this medication. It can increase the chance of having liver
problems.
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.
