| What is Arava?
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Arava is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. |
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| Are there any side effects associated with Arava?
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Arava side effects may include abdominal pain, back pain, bronchitis, cough, diarrhea, dizziness, hair loss, headache, high blood pressure, indigestion, itching, joint disorders, loss of appetite, mouth ulcers, nausea, rash, respiratory infection, sore throat, stomach inflammation, tendon inflammation, urinary tract infection, vomiting, weakness, weight loss.
If the side effects continue or are bothersome, check with
your doctor. Less common Arava side effects may include abscess, acne, allergic reaction, anemia, angina, anxiety, asthma, blood in the urine, blurred vision, bone pain, bruising, bursitis, cataracts, chest pain, colitis, conjunctivitis (pinkeye), constipation, cysts, depression, dermatitis, diabetes, difficulty breathing, dry mouth, dry skin, eczema, eye problems, fever, flu-like symptoms, frequent urination, fungal infection of the mouth, fungal infection of the skin, gallstones, gas, general feeling of illness, gingivitis, hair discoloration, hernia, herpes infection, hyperthyroidism, insomnia, joint pain and inflammation, leg cramps, lung problems, menstrual disorders, migraine, mouth and throat inflammation, muscle aches, muscle cramps, nail disorders, nasal inflammation, neck pain, nosebleeds, prostate disorder, rapid heartbeat, sinus inflammation, skin bumps, pain, painful urination, palpitations, pelvic pain, pneumonia, purple spots on skin, skin discoloration, skin tingling, skin ulcers, sleep disorders, sweating, swelling, tarry stools, taste problems, tooth problems, vaginal fungal infection, varicose veins,
and vertigo. |
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| How is Arava taken?
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Follow the directions for taking Arava provided by your doctor. Your dosage of Arava will be decreased after the first 3 days. Never take more than your doctor prescribes.
If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.
Do not take
two doses at once. |
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| Are there any effects of taking Arava with other medications?
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Some medicines may interact with Arava. Inform your doctor of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.
It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Arava with
cholestyramine, methotrexate, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs,
rifampin, or tolbutamide. |
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| How should I store Arava?
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Store Arava at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from heat and light. |
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