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Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Auranofin is an integral component of a comprehensive treatment regimen that incorporates non-drug therapies, such as rest and physical therapy, for the management of rheumatoid arthritis. It is specifically employed in the treatment of individuals with severe rheumatoid arthritis who have not experienced positive responses to other medications or are unable to tolerate them. Auranofin, classified as a gold compound, operates as a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) rather than a conventional pain reliever like aspirin. Although not directly alleviating pain, it is believed to mitigate arthritis-related pain by reducing inflammation.
Uses and Dosage
Follow your doctor’s instructions and take this medication orally, with or without food, usually once or twice a day. The prescribed dosage is determined based on your medical condition and how well you respond to the treatment. In order to minimize potential side effects like an upset stomach, your doctor might initiate the treatment with a low dose (once a day) and gradually increase it to twice a day.
Do not alter the dosage or frequency without obtaining approval from your doctor, as increasing the dose will not expedite improvement, and it may heighten the risk of serious side effects.
For optimal benefits, take this medication consistently at the same time(s) each day, aiding your memory by establishing a routine.
If you have been undergoing gold injections, transitioning to oral gold is usually possible immediately after ceasing the injections. In the case of switching from penicillamine, there’s typically a one-month waiting period after discontinuing penicillamine before commencing auranofin. Consult your doctor for specific details.
It may take 3 to 4 months of continuous therapy before experiencing the full advantages of this medication.
Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- metallic taste
- loose stools or diarrhea
- stomach pain
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- gas
- hair loss
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- bloody or tarry stools
- itching
- skin rash
- sore throat
- mouth sores
- fever
- chills
- unusual bruising or bleeding
- blood in the urine
- fatigue
Caution
- Before taking auranofin, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, whether to auranofin, other gold or heavy metal compounds, or any other substances. This product might contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of reactions to gold compounds, bleeding problems, blood disorders like bone marrow depression, colitis/inflammatory bowel disease, eczema, certain lung problems (fibrosis), kidney disease, liver disease, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), or recent radiation therapy.
- This medication may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Therefore, limit your time in the sun, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen along with protective clothing when outdoors. Notify your doctor promptly if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as the use of auranofin is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to an unborn baby. If pregnancy occurs, discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits associated with this medication.
- This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesired effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while using auranofin.
Form and Strength
Ridaura is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Ridaura capsule:
- 3 mg
FAQ
Can Ridaura cause a metallic taste in the mouth?
This medication may cause mouth/lip/throat sores (stomatitis). Tell your doctor if you notice a metallic taste in your mouth. This could be the first sign of stomatitis. Rinsing your mouth with a mild salt solution may provide some relief.
Does Ridaura contain gold?
Ridaura is a trialkylphosphine gold complex containing 29% elemental gold.
Resources
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/auranofin#:~:text=Auranofin%2C%20a%20trialkylphosphine%20gold%20complex,an%20orally%20active%20antiarthritic%20agent
- https://www.goodrx.com/ridaura/what-is
- https://www.rxlist.com/ridaura-drug.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7010/auranofin-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a685038.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/ridaura.html
