Arava Oral

Arava Oral Warning

Leflunomide must not be used during pregnancy because it may cause serious harm (possibly death) to an unborn baby. Women of childbearing age must have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medication. They must also use 2 forms of reliable birth control before starting leflunomide, while taking it, and after stopping it until they have finished taking another drug that helps leflunomide leave the body and confirmed through 2 blood tests that the leflunomide levels are very low (see How to Use section). If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. (See also Precautions section.)

Arava Oral Side Effects

Diarrhea, nausea, and dizziness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

• cough
• numbness/tingling of hands/feet
• hair loss
• chest pain
• fast/pounding heartbeat
• increased thirst/urination
• muscle cramp/pain
• mental/mood changes
• vision changes

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur:

• easy bruising/bleeding
• unusual growths/lumps
• swollen glands (lymph nodes)
• unexplained weight loss
• unusual tiredness

This medication can lower the body's ability to fight an infection. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any signs of an infection such as fever, chills, or persistent sore throat.

This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Most cases occur within 6 months of taking this drug. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any of these signs:

• yellowing eyes/skin
• dark urine
• persistent nausea/vomiting
• stomach/abdominal pain

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: