Arava (Leflunomide) – What You Need to Know

If you’ve been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or another autoimmune condition, chances are your doctor mentioned Arava. It’s the brand name for leflunomide, a drug that slows down the immune system’s attack on joints. In plain terms, it helps reduce swelling, pain, and joint damage so you can move more comfortably.

How Arava Works and Who Should Take It

Arava blocks an enzyme called dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, which is crucial for making DNA in rapidly dividing cells. By doing this, it slows the production of certain immune cells that cause inflammation. It’s not a painkiller, so you won’t feel instant relief, but it can change the disease’s course over weeks or months.

The drug is usually prescribed for adults with moderate to severe RA who haven’t responded well to other treatments. It can also be used for psoriatic arthritis and some other autoimmune disorders, but it’s not a first‑line option for everyone. Your doctor will decide based on your medical history, other meds, and how active your disease is.

Dosage, Safety Tips, and Common Side Effects

Typical starting doses are 20 mg once daily for 3 days, then 10 mg daily as a maintenance dose. Some patients stay on 20 mg daily if the lower dose isn’t enough. Your doctor may adjust the amount based on blood tests that check liver function and blood counts. It’s crucial to have these labs done before you start, after the first month, and periodically thereafter.

Common side effects include mild stomach upset, loss of appetite, and headaches. About 10 % of users notice liver enzyme changes, so you’ll need regular liver function tests. Less frequent but more serious problems are severe liver damage, low white blood cells, and lung inflammation. If you notice yellow eyes, persistent fever, or shortness of breath, call your doctor right away.

Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should avoid Arava. The drug stays in the body for months, so a strict contraception plan is required during treatment and for at least 2 years after stopping. Men should also use contraception, as the drug can affect sperm.

Interactions matter a lot. Avoid taking live vaccines while on Arava, and tell your pharmacist about any antibiotics, antifungals, or other disease‑modifying drugs you’re using. Some NSAIDs can increase the risk of stomach ulcers, so talk to your doctor before combining them.

Buying Arava online can be tempting, especially if you need a refill quickly. Stick to reputable, licensed pharmacies that require a prescription. Look for sites that display a valid pharmacy license, have clear contact information, and offer secure payment options. Avoid any shop that sells Arava without asking for a doctor’s note – those are usually fake and could put your health at risk.

When you order, check the shipping timeline and packaging. The medication should arrive sealed, with a lot number and expiration date on the label. If anything looks off, don’t use it and contact the pharmacy.

Here are a few quick tips to keep Arava working for you:

• Take the tablet with food to reduce stomach upset.
• Never skip liver or blood‑count tests – they catch problems early.
• Report any new symptoms, especially rash, fever, or breathing issues.
• Store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture.
• Keep a list of all your meds and share it with any new doctor.

Arava isn’t a cure, but it can slow joint damage and help you stay active. By following dosage instructions, monitoring labs, and using a trusted online pharmacy, you give yourself the best chance for a smoother arthritis journey.