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Table of Contents (click to jump to sections)
What is Arava used for?
Who should not take Arava?
What are some possible side effects?
What is Arava used for ?
Arava is used to treat active rheumatoid arthritis in adults to reduce signs and symptoms and to slow down damage to joints. It
can not cure rheumatoid arthritis, but it can help control the symptoms and progression of the disease. Who should not take Arava?
- You must not take Arava if you are pregnant or a woman of childbearing age not using reliable contraception.
- Arava is not for patients with serious immune deficiencies or severe uncontrolled infections.
- If you have other diseases such as kidney problems, tell your doctor.
Special Warnings with Arava:
For Women:
- You must not take Arava if you are pregnant or a woman of childbearing age not using reliable contraception, because in animal studies Arava has been shown to cause birth defects to the fetus.
- You must avoid becoming pregnant while being treated with Arava. If you suspect or find out that you are pregnant while taking Arava call you health care provider right away.
- After stopping Arava treatment you must complete the drug elimination procedure before becoming pregnant because Arava stays in the body a long time.
- You should not breast-feed if you are taking Arava.
For Men:
- If there is any possibility your partner could become pregnant, you should stop Arava treatment and go through the drug elimination procedure prescribed by your doctor.
For All Patients:
There is a potential to develop very low blood counts, especially if you are taking other medications. Your doctor will conduct liver tests before you start taking Arava and will check your liver's response to Arava every month at first.
General Precautions with Arava:
If you have the following conditions or if you are being treated with medications that can be harmful to your liver Arava may not be right for you:
- Liver disease including hepatitis B or C
- Kidney problems
- Severe immune system disorders, bone marrow disorders or severe uncontrolled infection.
What are some possible side effects of Arava?
- Diarrhea
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Hair loss
or thinning of hair
- Rash
There is the possibility of rare, serious skin reactions. You should inform your doctor immediately if you develop a skin rash or sores in your mouth or nose.
For more detailed information about Arava, ask your health care provider. |
