Arava

Arava is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Its generic name is leflunomide. Arava is primarily used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, which is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the joints. This medication helps to reduce pain and inflammation in the joints, consequently improving the overall quality of life for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

Warnings

Arava should not be taken under certain circumstances. It is contraindicated in the following situations:

• Pregnancy: Arava can cause severe birth defects and harm to an unborn baby. It is important to use effective birth control methods during treatment and for a certain period after stopping the medication.
• Liver disease: Individuals with liver disease should not take Arava, as it can further damage the liver.
• Severe immunodeficiency: Arava may increase the risk of infections in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Managing Side Effects

Arava may cause certain side effects, which can vary from person to person. These side effects are usually temporary and improve with time. Common side effects of Arava include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Back pain

Arava Dosing

The dosing of Arava is determined by the healthcare provider and is based on individual factors, such as the severity of the condition being treated and the patient’s response to the medication. The usual recommended dose for adults with rheumatoid arthritis is 20 mg once daily. It is important to take Arava at the same time every day and to follow the prescribed dosage instructions closely.

If a dose of Arava is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule should be resumed. It is not recommended to take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

An overdose of Arava can lead to an increased risk of side effects. In case of an overdose, medical attention should be sought immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, and difficulty breathing.

Arava and Concomitant Drugs

Arava may interact with certain medications, leading to potentially harmful effects or reducing the effectiveness of the drug. It is important to inform the healthcare provider about all other medications being taken, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products. Some medications that may interact with Arava include:

Inquiring About Arava

• 1. Can Arava be taken during pregnancy?

No, Arava should not be taken during pregnancy as it can cause severe birth defects and harm to the unborn baby. Effective birth control methods should be used during treatment and for a certain period after stopping the medication.

• 2. What should I do if I miss a dose of Arava?

If a dose of Arava is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose. It is not recommended to take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

• 3. What are the common side effects of Arava?

Common side effects of Arava include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, and back pain. These side effects are usually temporary and improve with time.

• 4. Can Arava be taken with other medications?

Arava may interact with certain medications, leading to potentially harmful effects or reducing the effectiveness of the drug. It is important to inform the healthcare provider about all other medications being taken.

• 5. What is the recommended dosage of Arava?

The usual recommended dose of Arava for adults with rheumatoid arthritis is 20 mg once daily. It is important to take Arava at the same time every day and to follow the prescribed dosage instructions closely.