Are you currently dealing with the joint pain and swelling associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis? If so, your doctor may have prescribed Leflunomide. This medication is commonly dispensed under the brand name Arava. There are several vital safety considerations you must be aware of when taking this treatment. Let’s explore them together here at Nirogi Lanka.
What should you tell your doctor before starting this medication?
This is critically important. Before you begin taking this medication, you must provide your doctor with a complete overview of your health history. If any of the following conditions apply to you, please be sure to disclose them immediately.
| Do you have any of these conditions? | Description |
|---|---|
| Pregnancy or planning a pregnancy | (Crucial) You must avoid pregnancy while taking this medication and for a period after stopping it. |
| Breastfeeding | This medication can pass into breast milk and affect your baby. |
| Liver or kidney disease | This medication may impact your liver or kidney function. |
| Weakened immune system | This medication may further suppress your immune system. |
| Low blood cell counts | A condition involving low white blood cell, red blood cell, or platelet counts. |
| Other medical conditions | Diabetes, high blood pressure, lung disease (e.g., asthma), tuberculosis, cancer treatments, or neurological disorders (e.g., numbness in hands/feet). |
| Vaccinations | If you have recently received a vaccine or are scheduled for one soon. |
| Allergies | Any known allergies to Leflunomide, Teriflunomide, or other medicines or foods. |
How to take this medication?
It is simple: take the exact dosage prescribed by your doctor at the scheduled time. Swallow the tablet with a full glass of water. Do not skip doses, change your dosage, or stop the medication on your own. Always follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
What to do if you miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one.
What if you take too much?
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate emergency medical attention at your nearest hospital or emergency room. You may also contact your local national poison control center for guidance.
This medication is prescribed specifically for you. Do not share it with anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms, as it could be dangerous.
Medication Interactions
Leflunomide can interact with other drugs. It is essential to inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including vitamins, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements.
| Medications to Avoid Concurrently | |
|---|---|
| Teriflunomide | |
| Other Potential Interactions | |
| Diabetes Medications | Nateglinide, Repaglinide, Rosiglitazone, Pioglitazone, etc. |
| Cholesterol Medications | Atorvastatin, Pravastatin, Rosuvastatin, Simvastatin, etc. |
| Other Agents | Warfarin (blood thinners), Methotrexate, birth control pills, Caffeine, Penicillin, Cholestyramine, Charcoal, and many others. |
This list is not exhaustive. Always consult your Nirogi Lanka doctor regarding any substances you are consuming to ensure your safety.
Precautions while taking this medication
Regular Medical Monitoring
During treatment, your doctor will need to monitor you closely. You will likely be required to undergo regular blood tests to monitor your blood counts and liver function. Ensure you complete these as scheduled.
Severe Skin Reactions
Serious skin reactions can occur even weeks after starting this medication. If you notice a red rash, blistering, peeling skin, or develop a fever or body aches, contact your doctor immediately. Additionally, symptoms such as facial or lip swelling, or swollen lymph nodes in the neck or armpits, can be serious warning signs.
Crucial Note: The effects of this medication can remain in your system for up to 2 years after your last dose. Because of this, please report any unusual symptoms to your doctor, even long after you have finished the course.
Pregnancy and Birth Control (Extremely Important!)
This is the most critical information you need to know about this medication.
Women: You must completely avoid pregnancy while taking Leflunomide. This medication can cause severe birth defects to an unborn baby. Because the drug stays in your system long after you stop taking it, you must use reliable birth control until your doctor performs blood tests to confirm the medication has been cleared from your body.
If you are planning to conceive, please discuss this with your doctor before starting or during your treatment. They will guide you on how to plan this process safely.
Potential Side Effects
Like any medication, Leflunomide can cause side effects. Some are serious while others are common. It is important to stay informed.
| Side effects requiring immediate medical attention | |
|---|---|
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. |
| Signs of Liver Damage | Dark-colored urine, yellowing of eyes/skin, pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, or loss of appetite. |
| Signs of Infection | Fever, chills, cough, or sore throat. (This medication suppresses the immune system, increasing infection risk). |
| Signs of Bleeding | Unexplained bruising, black stools, or blood in urine. |
| Other Serious Signs | Difficulty breathing, cough, pain or numbness in limbs, or high blood pressure. |
| Common side effects to report if they persist | |
| Diarrhea | Headache |
| Hair loss or thinning | Nausea and fatigue |
Storage Instructions
Keep these tablets out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature (15-30°C) away from light and moisture. Discard expired medication properly.
Nirogi Lanka Take-Home Message
- Leflunomide is a potent medication for Rheumatoid Arthritis.
- Inform your doctor about all your medical conditions and other medications before starting.
- Crucial: Avoid pregnancy while taking this drug and until cleared by your doctor. Effective contraception is mandatory.
- Seek medical advice immediately if you notice symptoms of liver damage, severe skin reactions, or signs of infection.
- Do not miss scheduled doctor visits or blood tests.
- Never share this medication with anyone else.
Leflunomide, Arava, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Arthritis, joint pain, Sri Lanka, medicine
