Arava Rheumatoid Arthritis 

This medication is a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic medicine (DMARD) used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and reduce its progression to avoid additional joint damage. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory illness that can produce abnormalities in the afflicted joints. There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but this medication rheumatoid arthritis therapy helps slow its course and prevent further joint damage, especially if detected and treated early.  

Arava vs Methotrexate 

• This medication contains the active substance leflunomide. Methotrexate contains the active component methotrexate sodium. Both drugs are used in the treatment of RA.
• Arava and methotrexate are both effective DMARD.  The efficacy of this medication is similar to methotrexate in terms of indications and symptoms and is a viable substitute for persons who have failed or could not tolerate methotrexate.

Arava Dosage:  

Adult Standard Dose for Rheumatoid Arthritis: 

Loading dose: 100 mg orally once daily for three days. 

Maintenance dose: 20 mg orally once daily (If not well tolerated, the dose may be decreased to Arava 10 mg daily) 

Direction

• This medication is taken by mouth with or without food, once a day, or as directed by a physician.  You may be prescribed to take a higher dose for the first 3 days of medication.
• This medication should be taken regularly, at the same time daily, to maximize the benefits. 
• Liver function needs to be evaluated on a regular basis, and the results of these tests may require you to discontinue this medication. 
• When you stop taking this medicine, you may need to be treated with other medications to assist your body get rid of leflunomide as soon as possible. 

Arava Side Effects  

Some of the most prevalent side effects are as follows: 

• Nauseousness, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort 
• Headache; 
• Abnormalities in liver function 
• Hair thinning 
• Backache; 
• Weakness; 
• High blood pressure  

This is not a full list of potential side effects; others may emerge.  

Caution

• Use birth control to prevent pregnancy while on this medication and until you have finished a “drug elimination” therapy. 
• Arava can potentially induce serious or deadly liver damage. Tell your doctor if you have a history of liver illness or are using any medications for pain or arthritis. 
• Liver function needs to be evaluated regularly, and test results may require you to discontinue this medication.

Frequently Asked Questions  

-Is Arava weight loss possible?  

Yes, according to some research, this kind of DMARDS for rheumatoid arthritis, is more likely than other RA treatments to cause weight loss as a side effect. It can cause diarrhea, nausea, and stomach distress, all of which can increase weight loss. 

-What are the side effects of Arava 20 mg?  

Adverse effects of Arava 20 MG oral tablet treatment in RA patients include diarrhea, increased liver enzymes, alopecia, and rash. Although all drugs might have undesirable side effects, many people have no or minor adverse effects. Consult your doctor if you suffer any of the symptoms listed above.