This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Arava Consumer Information
ARAVA
Generic Name: leflunomide (oral) (leh FLEW no mide)
Brand Names: Arava
What is the most important information I should know about leflunomide?
- Leflunomide is in the FDA pregnancy category X. There is an increased risk of birth defects and death of the unborn baby while taking leflunomide. Do not take this medication if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Notify your doctor immediately if you think you have become pregnant during treatment. Birth control must be used during treatment with leflunomide. Discuss with your doctor the procedure for removing leflunomide from the body following treatment before becoming pregnant. Without the proper drug elimination procedure, it may take up to two years before leflunomide is at sufficiently low levels in the body so as to reduce the risk of harm to an unborn baby. It is not known whether leflunomide imposes an increased risk of fetal harm when taken by a man. Men wishing to father a child while taking leflunomide should discuss their options with their doctor.
What is leflunomide?
- Leflunomide affects the immune system and decreases inflammation.
- Leflunomide is used to reduce the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, reduce damage to the joints caused by rheumatoid arthritis, and to improve physical function in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Leflunomide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking leflunomide?
- Before taking leflunomide, tell your doctor if you have
- liver disease or a history of hepatitis;
- a history of significant alcohol use;
- kidney disease;
- an immune system disease;
- recently received a live vaccine;
- poor bone marrow function; or
- a current or chronic infection.
- You may not be able to take leflunomide, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
- Leflunomide is in the FDA pregnancy category X. There is an increased risk of birth defects and death of the unborn baby while taking leflunomide. Do not take this medication if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Notify your doctor immediately if you think you have become pregnant during treatment. Birth control must be used during treatment with leflunomide. Discuss with your doctor the procedure for removing leflunomide from the body following treatment before becoming pregnant. Without the proper drug elimination procedure, it may take up to two years before leflunomide is at sufficiently low levels in the body so as to reduce the risk of harm to an unborn baby. It is not known whether leflunomide imposes an increased risk of fetal harm when taken by a man. Men wishing to father a child while taking leflunomide should discuss their options with their doctor.
- It is not known whether leflunomide passes into breast milk. There is a potential for serious side effects in a nursing baby from leflunomide. Do not take leflunomide if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take leflunomide?
- Take leflunomide exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass of water.
- Leflunomide can be taken with or without food or milk.
- It is important to take leflunomide regularly to get the most benefit.
- Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other medical evaluations while taking leflunomide to monitor side effects and progress.
- Store leflunomide at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
- Symptoms of a leflunomide overdose may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood problems, and liver problems.
What should I avoid while taking leflunomide?
- Discuss with your doctor the use of alcohol while taking leflunomide. Alcohol and leflunomide can both be damaging to the liver.
- Leflunomide can lower the activity of the immune system making you more susceptible to infection. Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. In addition, do not receive vaccines that contain a live strain of the virus (e.g., live oral polio vaccine) and avoid contact with individuals who have recently been vaccinated with a live virus.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.