Leflunomide: how to take it safely
Arava
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow once a day with water.
- You will need regular blood and liver tests.
When to take it
Take it once a day at the same time.
Take it with
With or without food.
What to avoid
- Pregnancy. Avoid pregnancy during treatment, and for up to 2 years after unless your doctor has cleared you. This applies to men too.
- Alcohol.
- Live vaccines.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver problems or infections.
Possible side effects
Diarrhoea, nausea, hair thinning, raised blood pressure.
Get help if
Yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, fever, cough or breathlessness, or a severe rash: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.