leflunomide - oral, Arava

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GENERIC NAME: LEFLUNOMIDE - ORAL (leh-FLEW-no-mide)

BRAND NAME(S): Arava

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

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 Precautions section).

This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Most cases occur within 6 months of taking this drug. If you already have liver disease (such as hepatitis B or C), leflunomide should not be used. Liver function (blood) tests must be performed periodically while taking leflunomide. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice dark urine, persistent nausea/vomiting, light-colored stools, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin. See Drug Interactions section.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.