Arava Information

Generic Name: E: LEFLUNOMIDE (le-FLUN-o-mide)

Common Uses: This medicine is a pyrimidine synthesis inhibitor used to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

How to use this Medicine: Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do NOT take 2 doses at once.

Cautions: DO NOT STOP USING THIS MEDICINE without first checking with your doctor. It may take 4 weeks or more to notice any improvement while taking this medicine. KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are using this medicine. THIS MEDICINE MAY LOWER YOUR RESISTANCE TO INFECTION. Prevent infection by avoiding contact with people with colds or other infections. Do not touch your eyes or the inside of your nose unless you have thoroughly washed your hands first. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE HAVING IMMUNIZATIONS (VACCINATIONS) for up to 2 years after stopping this medicine. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. FOR WOMEN: THIS MEDICINE CAN CAUSE SEVERE BIRTH DEFECTS. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE if you are pregnant. You must have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine. Use a reliable form of birth control while taking this medicine and for 2 years after stopping this medicine. IF YOU SUSPECT THAT YOU COULD BE PREGNANT or if your period is late, contact your doctor immediately. If you plan to become pregnant within 2 years of stopping this medicine, you may need to follow drug elimination procedures. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist for more information about these procedures. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects: SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include diarrhea or hair loss. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience a skin rash, headache, flushing, blurred vision, sudden onset of sweating, pale skin, yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine or pale stools, unusual fatigue, or loss of consciousness. If signs of infection, anemia, or easy bruising or bleeding develop, this medicine may need to be stopped. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

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