Generic name:leflunomide [ le-FLOO-noe-mide ]
Drug classes:Antirheumatics, Selective immunosuppressants
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 24, 2022.
What is Arava?
Arava affects the immune system and reduces swelling and inflammation in the body.
Arava is used to treat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Arava may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Do not use Arava if you are pregnant, and stop taking this medicine if you think you might be pregnant. Use birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are taking Arava, and until you complete a "drug elimination" procedure.
Arava can cause severe or fatal liver damage. Tell your doctor if you have a history of liver disease or if you also use other medicines such as: pain or arthritis medicine (including aspirin, Tylenol, and Advil/Motrin), medicines to treat tuberculosis or other infections, seizure medication, hormonal birth control or hormone replacement therapy, chemotherapy, cholesterol-lowering medicine, heart medication, or blood pressure medicine.
Your liver function will need to be tested often, and you may need to stop taking Arava based on the results of these tests.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Arava if you are allergic to leflunomide or teriflunomide, or if:
you are pregnant (you will need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment);
you have severe liver disease; or
you are also using teriflunomide.
Do not use Arava if you are pregnant or may become pregnant. Avoid getting pregnant until after you stop taking Arava and undergo a "drug elimination" procedure to help rid your body of this medicine. Stop taking Arava and call your do...
