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LeflunomidePronounced"leh-FLEW-no-mide" Common brand names:Arava UsesThis medication is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, a condition in which the body's defense system (immune system) fails to recognize the body as itself and attacks the healthy tissues around the joints. Leflunomide helps to reduce the joint damage/pain/swelling and helps you to move better. It works by weakening your immune system and decreasing swelling (inflammation). Other UsesThis section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional. This drug may also be used for psoriatic arthritis. It may also be used to reduce the risk of rejection of organ transplant. How to Use This MedicationTake this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. You may be instructed to take a higher dose for the first 3 days of treatment. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. After treatment is stopped, a different drug (cholestyramine) may be given as directed to help remove leflunomide from your body. This procedure is used if you need a rapid removal of the drug from your system (for example, if you are a female/male planning to have children, or suffering from severe side effects). Without the procedure, the drug may stay in your body for up to 2 years. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor if your symptoms last or get worse. |