Side effects of arava 10 mg. Arava 10 mg Side Effects: Common, Mild, and Serious Reactions Explained

30.07.202325.06.2023 by alexxlab

What are the most common side effects of Arava 10 mg. How can you manage mild reactions to leflunomide. When should you be concerned about serious side effects from Arava. What precautions should be taken when using this rheumatoid arthritis medication.

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Understanding Arava: A Powerful Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Arava, known by its generic name leflunomide, is a prescription medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults. As a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD), Arava works to slow the progression of RA and alleviate its symptoms. Available in oral tablet form, it’s designed for long-term use in managing this chronic condition.

While Arava can be highly effective in treating RA, it’s important for patients to be aware of potential side effects. Understanding these reactions can help individuals make informed decisions about their treatment and know when to seek medical attention.

Common Side Effects of Arava: What to Expect

Many patients experience mild to moderate side effects when taking Arava. These reactions are often temporary and may subside as the body adjusts to the medication. The most frequently reported side effects in clinical trials include:

Headache
Digestive issues (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, indigestion)
Skin rash
Hair loss
Elevated liver enzymes

It’s crucial to note that while these side effects are common, they may not be experienced by everyone taking Arava. Individual reactions can vary based on factors such as overall health, dosage, and concurrent medications.

Mild Side Effects and Management Strategies

In addition to the common side effects, Arava may cause a range of mild reactions that are generally manageable. These can include:

Back pain
Dizziness
Itching
Abdominal pain
Cold-like symptoms (runny nose, sneezing)
Swelling of tendon coverings
Upper respiratory infections
Weakness
Mouth ulcers

How can patients manage these mild side effects? Here are some strategies:

Stay hydrated to help with digestive issues and headaches
Use over-the-counter pain relievers for headaches or back pain, after consulting with a doctor
Apply cool compresses to itchy skin
Get plenty of rest to combat weakness and aid in recovery from upper respiratory infections
Use saltwater rinses for mouth ulcers

If these side effects persist or become bothersome, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust the dosage or recommend additional treatments to manage these reactions.

Serious Side Effects: When to Seek Medical Attention

While less common, Arava can potentially cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include:

Liver damage (a boxed warning from the FDA)
Weakened immune system
High blood pressure
Harm to a fetus
Allergic reactions

What symptoms should prompt immediate medical care? Patients should be vigilant for:

Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Severe abdominal pain
Unusual fatigue or weakness
Frequent infections
Unexplained bruising or bleeding
Severe skin reactions
Difficulty breathing or chest pain

If any of these symptoms occur, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure proper management of these serious side effects.

Liver Damage: A Boxed Warning for Arava

The FDA has issued a boxed warning for Arava regarding the potential for severe liver damage. This is the most serious type of warning for prescription drug labeling. But what does this mean for patients?

Liver damage from Arava can be severe and potentially life-threatening. Symptoms may include:

Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Dark urine
Fatigue
Nausea or vomiting
Loss of appetite
Pain in the upper right abdomen

To monitor for liver damage, doctors typically order regular blood tests to check liver function. It’s crucial for patients to adhere to these monitoring schedules and report any concerning symptoms promptly.

Arava and Immune System Suppression

As a DMARD, Arava works by suppressing the immune system to reduce inflammation in RA. However, this mechanism of action can also lead to an increased risk of infections. How does this affect patients?

Individuals taking Arava may be more susceptible to various infections, including:

Upper respiratory infections
Urinary tract infections
Skin infections
Opportunistic infections (in rare cases)

To mitigate this risk, patients should:

Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing
Avoid close contact with people who have active infections
Stay up-to-date with vaccinations (though live vaccines should be avoided while on Arava)
Report any signs of infection to their healthcare provider promptly

By taking these precautions, patients can help protect themselves while benefiting from Arava’s therapeutic effects.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Considerations with Arava

Arava carries significant risks for pregnant women and their fetuses. The drug has been shown to cause birth defects in animal studies and is contraindicated during pregnancy. But what does this mean for women of childbearing age who need to take Arava?

Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should not take Arava. Additionally, women of childbearing potential should:

Use effective contraception while taking Arava
Continue contraception for up to 2 years after stopping Arava, unless they undergo a drug elimination procedure
Consult their doctor immediately if they become pregnant while taking Arava

Regarding breastfeeding, it’s unknown whether Arava passes into breast milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medication.

Managing Side Effects: Tips for Arava Users

While side effects can be concerning, there are strategies to manage them effectively. How can patients maximize the benefits of Arava while minimizing its side effects?

Take Arava exactly as prescribed by your doctor
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and complete recommended blood tests
Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise
Avoid alcohol, as it can increase the risk of liver damage
Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly
Keep a symptom diary to track any side effects and discuss them with your doctor

Remember, open communication with your healthcare team is crucial. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arava Side Effects

Patients often have questions about potential side effects when starting a new medication. Here are some common queries about Arava:

Does Arava cause weight loss?

Weight loss is not a directly reported side effect of Arava in clinical trials. However, some patients may experience a loss of appetite, which could lead to weight loss. It’s important to note that unexplained weight loss can also be a sign of liver damage, a serious side effect of Arava. Any significant changes in weight should be reported to a healthcare provider.

Do side effects vary by Arava strength (10 mg, 20 mg, 100 mg)?

Clinical trials did not show significant differences in side effects based on Arava dosage. However, individual responses can vary, and some patients may be more sensitive to higher doses. It’s essential to follow the prescribed dosage and report any side effects to your doctor, who can adjust the dose if necessary.

How long do Arava side effects typically last?

Many side effects of Arava are temporary and may resolve within a few days to weeks as the body adjusts to the medication. However, some side effects, particularly those related to liver function or immune suppression, may persist and require ongoing monitoring. If side effects continue or worsen over time, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider.

Can lifestyle changes help manage Arava side effects?

Yes, certain lifestyle modifications can help mitigate some side effects of Arava:

Maintaining a balanced diet can help with digestive issues
Staying hydrated may alleviate headaches and aid digestion
Regular exercise can help combat fatigue and weakness
Avoiding alcohol can reduce the risk of liver damage
Getting adequate sleep can support overall health and immune function

It’s always advisable to discuss any lifestyle changes with a healthcare provider to ensure they’re appropriate for your individual situation.

Monitoring and Reporting Side Effects

Vigilant monitoring is crucial when taking Arava. How can patients effectively track and report side effects?

Keep a detailed log of any symptoms or changes in health
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and lab tests
Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly
Be aware of the signs of serious side effects and seek immediate medical attention if they occur
Consider using a medication tracking app to record doses and side effects

Additionally, patients can report side effects to the FDA through the MedWatch program. This helps the agency monitor the safety of medications and identify potential risks.

Alternatives to Arava: Exploring Other RA Treatments

For patients who experience severe side effects or do not respond well to Arava, there are alternative treatments for rheumatoid arthritis. What options might be considered?

Other DMARDs such as methotrexate or hydroxychloroquine
Biologic agents like TNF inhibitors or IL-6 inhibitors
JAK inhibitors
Combination therapies using multiple medications
Non-pharmacological approaches such as physical therapy or occupational therapy

The choice of alternative treatment depends on various factors, including the severity of RA, overall health status, and individual response to different medications. A rheumatologist can provide guidance on the most appropriate alternatives based on a patient’s specific situation.

Long-term Outlook for Patients Taking Arava

Understanding the long-term effects and prognosis for patients on Arava is crucial for making informed treatment decisions. What can patients expect with prolonged use of this medication?

Many patients experience significant improvement in RA symptoms and slowed disease progression with long-term Arava use. However, ongoing monitoring is necessary to ensure continued safety and efficacy. Long-term considerations include:

Regular liver function tests to monitor for potential damage
Periodic blood counts to check for effects on the immune system
Monitoring for any cumulative side effects that may develop over time
Assessing the need for dose adjustments or treatment changes as RA progresses or remits

It’s important to maintain open communication with healthcare providers throughout the course of treatment. This allows for timely adjustments to the treatment plan and ensures that the benefits of Arava continue to outweigh any potential risks.

Supporting Patients on Arava: Resources and Support Groups

Dealing with a chronic condition like RA and managing medication side effects can be challenging. What resources are available to support patients taking Arava?

Arthritis Foundation: Offers educational resources and support programs for individuals with RA
CreakyJoints: Provides a community for arthritis patients, including forums and educational materials
Local support groups: Many communities have in-person or virtual support groups for RA patients
Patient assistance programs: Some pharmaceutical companies offer financial assistance for medications like Arava
Rheumatology nurses: Can provide education and support for managing medications and side effects

Engaging with these resources can help patients feel more empowered in managing their condition and treatment. It’s also beneficial to involve family members or caregivers in the support process to create a strong network of care.

Arava in Combination with Other RA Treatments

In some cases, Arava may be prescribed in combination with other medications to enhance its effectiveness in treating RA. How does this affect the side effect profile?

Combination therapy can potentially increase the risk of certain side effects, particularly those related to immune suppression and liver function. Common combinations include:

Arava with methotrexate
Arava with biologics
Arava with other DMARDs

When using combination therapy, healthcare providers typically adjust dosages and increase monitoring to minimize risks. Patients should be aware of the potential for increased side effects and report any new symptoms promptly.

Future Developments in RA Treatment: Beyond Arava

As medical research advances, new treatments for RA are continually being developed. What potential future therapies might offer alternatives to Arava?

Emerging areas of research include:

Targeted synthetic DMARDs with more specific mechanisms of action
Gene therapy approaches to modify the immune response in RA
Personalized medicine strategies to tailor treatments based on individual genetic profiles
Novel biologic agents targeting different aspects of the inflammatory process

While Arava remains an important treatment option for many RA patients, ongoing research may lead to even more effective and better-tolerated therapies in the future. Patients should stay informed about new developments and discuss emerging options with their healthcare providers.

Side effects and what to do about them

Arava (leflunomide) is a brand-name prescription medication. It’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults.

Here are some fast facts about Arava:

Active ingredient: leflunomide
Drug class: disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
Drug form: oral tablet

Arava is meant to be a long-term treatment for RA.

Like other drugs, Arava tablets can cause side effects. Read on to learn about potential common, mild, and serious side effects. For a general overview of Arava, see this article.

Arava can cause certain side effects, some of which are more common than others. These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Arava in clinical trials:

headache
problems with digestion, such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and indigestion
skin rash
hair loss*
elevated liver enzymes, which can be a sign of liver damage†

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.
† Arava has a boxed warning for this side effect. This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To learn more about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

Mild side effects can occur with Arava. This list doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Arava’s prescribing information.

Mild side effects that have been reported with Arava include:

back pain
dizziness
headache
itching
pain in the abdomen
problems with digestion, such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and indigestion
skin rash
swelling of the lining inside your nose, which can cause cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose and sneezing
swelling of the protective covering around your tendons (tissues that connect your muscles to your bones)
upper respiratory infection, such as bronchitis
weakness
hair loss*
mouth ulcers*
elevated liver enzymes, which can be a sign of liver damage†

These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks side effects of the medication. If you develop a side effect while taking Arava and want to tell the FDA about it, visit MedWatch.

Arava may cause serious side effects. The list below may not include all possible serious side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Arava’s prescribing information.

If you develop serious side effects while taking Arava, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Serious side effects that have been reported and their symptoms include:

Weak immune system. Symptoms can include:
- fatigue
- frequent infections
- abnormal levels of certain blood tests, such as neutrophils (a type of white blood cell)
Liver damage.*†
High blood pressure.†
Harm to a fetus.*‡
Allergic reaction.†

* Arava has a boxed warning for this side effect. This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
† For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.
‡ To learn more about this side effect, see “Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Arava” in the “Precautions for Arava” section below.

Arava may cause several side effects. Here are some frequently asked questions about the drug’s side effects and their answers.

Does Arava cause weight loss?

No, Arava isn’t likely to cause weight loss. This side effect wasn’t reported in clinical trials of the drug.

However, Arava may cause loss of appetite, which was a rare side effect in trials of the drug. And loss of appetite can lead to weight loss.

Keep in mind that weight loss can be a sign of liver damage,* which is a possible serious side effect of Arava.

If you have unexplained weight loss while taking Arava, talk with your doctor right away. They can check your liver function or help determine other possible causes of your weight loss.

* Arava has a boxed warning for this side effect. This is the most serious warning from the FDA. To learn more, see the “Side effect specifics” section below.

Do side effects of Arava vary by strength (10 mg, 20 mg, 100 mg)?

It’s not likely. Clinical trials of Arava didn’t show any differences in side effects based on the drug’s strength.

If you’re concerned about your risk of side effects from Arava based on the strength you take, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Does Arava cause lung problems?

It’s possible that Arava may cause lung problems. These side effects weren’t reported in clinical trials of the drug. However, certain lung problems have been reported since Arava became available for use.

Specifically, there have been reports of interstitial lung disease (ILD) with Arava. ILD is a group of conditions that can cause scarring or swelling in the lungs. This leads to symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath. In rare cases, ILD can be fatal.

Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of ILD while taking Arava. They may have you stop taking the drug temporarily until they can determine the cause of your symptoms.

You may have a higher risk of ILD if you already have this condition or other lung problems before starting treatment with Arava. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any lung problems before taking the drug.

Learn more about some of the side effects that Arava may cause.

Hair loss

Hair loss is a possible side effect of Arava. In clinical trials, this was one of the more common side effects.

It’s important to note that rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which Arava is prescribed to treat, can also cause hair loss. If you have hair loss while taking Arava, it could be caused by one or both factors.

What you can do

Below are a few tips for helping reduce hair loss:

Gently massage your scalp when washing your hair. Avoid scrubbing your scalp vigorously.
Use a conditioner that moisturizes your hair. This should help remove tangles more gently when brushing.
Brush or comb your hair only when necessary, such as when styling it.
Avoid using styling tools that may be damaging to your hair, such as a curling iron.

If you have hair loss that’s excessive or bothersome while taking Arava, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if your hair loss is due to RA or Arava. They can also suggest other ways to ease your hair loss.

Mouth ulcers

Arava may cause mouth ulcers. This was a common side effect in clinical trials of the drug.

Mouth ulcers are painful sores that can affect your gums, tongue, lips, cheeks, or throat. They may appear as a fluid-filled blister or a small cut. Other symptoms of mouth ulcers include:

swelling
peeling
stinging or burning sensation
trouble eating

What you can do

Tell your doctor if you develop bothersome mouth ulcers while taking Arava. They can suggest ways to help ease your symptoms.

High blood pressure

Taking Arava may cause high blood pressure. This was a common side effect in clinical trials of the drug.

High blood pressure doesn’t usually cause any symptoms unless it’s severe. Symptoms of very high blood pressure can include:

dizziness
headache
vision changes, such as blurry vision or double vision

What you can do

Your doctor may check your blood pressure before you start taking Arava and periodically during treatment. They may also suggest you check your blood pressure with a home monitor while you take Arava.

Be sure to tell your doctor if you already have high blood pressure before taking the drug. They can advise you on whether it’s safe for you to take Arava while you have this condition.

If you have symptoms of very high blood pressure while taking Arava, tell your doctor right away. They may prescribe blood pressure medication to help manage this side effect.

Liver damage

Taking Arava can cause serious liver damage, such as liver failure. In fact, Arava has a boxed warning about the risk of liver damage. This is a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Liver failure wasn’t reported in clinical trials of Arava. However, liver damage has been reported since the drug became available for use. In rare cases, liver damage from Arava can be fatal.

Your risk of liver failure with Arava may be higher if you already have liver problems before you start taking the drug. Your risk is also higher if you take other medications that can harm your liver. This includes the rheumatoid arthritis drug methotrexate (Trexall).

It’s important to watch for the following symptoms of liver problems while taking Arava:

jaundice
loss of appetite
weight loss
diarrhea
nausea

What you can do

Your doctor will order liver function tests for you before you start taking Arava. And they’ll continue to check your liver function while you take the drug. If you develop liver damage while taking Arava, your doctor may switch you to a different treatment.

It may not be safe to take Arava if you already have liver problems. Be sure to tell your doctor about any liver problems you have before starting Arava treatment.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all other medications you take. They can advise you if any of your medications may cause liver damage. If you take other drugs that cause liver damage, your doctor may watch your liver function more closely during treatment. Or they may prescribe a medication other than Arava to treat your condition.

Allergic reaction

As with most drugs, Arava can cause an allergic reaction in some people. This side effect occurred in clinical trials, however, it wasn’t common.

Symptoms can be mild or serious and can include:

skin rash
itching
flushing
swelling under your skin, typically in your eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe

What you can do

For mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your doctor right away. They may recommend ways to ease your symptoms and determine whether you should keep taking Arava. However, if your symptoms are serious and you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Below are important factors to keep in mind when taking Arava.

Boxed warnings

This drug has boxed warnings about risks of liver damage and harm to a fetus. These are serious warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

For details about the risk of liver damage, see the “Side effect specifics” section above. To learn more about the risk of harm to a fetus, see “Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Arava” in the “Precautions for Arava” section below.

Other precautions

Be sure to talk with your doctor about your health history before you take Arava. This drug may not be the right treatment option for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health. The conditions and factors to consider include:

Lung problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have lung problems before starting treatment with Arava. The drug can cause new or worsening lung problems, such as interstitial lung disease (scarring or swelling in the lungs). Your doctor may recommend a drug other than Arava for you.

Weak immune system. Your doctor may not prescribe Arava for you if you have a weak immune system. This could increase your risk of serious infections, including tuberculosis. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have a weak immune system. They may prescribe a treatment other than Arava for you.

Infection. Before you start taking Arava, tell your doctor if you have any active infections. They’ll likely treat your infection before you start treatment with Arava.

High blood pressure. Arava may cause high blood pressure. If you already have this condition, the drug may increase your blood pressure even more. Your doctor can advise you on whether it’s safe for you to take Arava while you have high blood pressure.

Allergic reaction. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Arava or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe Arava. Ask your doctor what other medications may be better options for you.

Alcohol with Arava

It should be safe to drink a moderate amount of alcohol on occasion while taking Arava.

Keep in mind that drinking large amounts of alcohol can cause liver disease. Liver damage* is a possible serious side effect of Arava. So drinking large amounts of alcohol while taking Arava could increase your risk of liver problems.

For some people, alcohol may worsen symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Arava is prescribed to treat RA. So if you know alcohol worsens your RA symptoms, you’ll likely want to avoid alcohol while taking Arava.

If you drink alcohol, your doctor can advise on the amount that’s safe for you to drink while taking Arava.

* Arava has a boxed warning for this side effect. This is the most serious warning from the FDA. To learn more, see the “Side effect specifics” section below.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Arava

Below are details about taking Arava while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Pregnancy while taking Arava

If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you should not take Arava. In fact, the drug has a boxed warning about a risk of harm to a fetus if taken during pregnancy. This is a serious warning from the FDA.

Arava may cause harm to a fetus. Because of this risk, your doctor will make sure you have a negative pregnancy test before starting treatment with Arava. If you become pregnant while taking Arava, it’s important to tell your doctor right away.

If you’re able to become pregnant, it’s recommended that you use an effective form of birth control while taking Arava. You may need to keep using birth control for up to 2 years after you stop taking the drug.

Talk with your doctor if you plan to become pregnant within 2 years after stopping Arava treatment. Your doctor may give you treatments that help your body get rid of the drug faster. And this could lower the risk of harm to a fetus if you become pregnant during this time.

Arava pregnancy registry

If you become pregnant while taking Arava, consider enrolling in a pregnancy registry.

A pregnancy registry helps gather details about how certain medications can affect pregnancy. To learn more, visit this registry website, call 877-311-8972, or talk with your doctor.

Breastfeeding while taking Arava

It’s not known if Arava passes into breast milk during breastfeeding. However, because of the possible risks to a child who is breastfed, it’s advised that you avoid breastfeeding while taking Arava.

If you’re breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed while taking Arava, talk with your doctor. They can recommend other ways to feed your child.

Mild and serious side effects are possible while taking Arava. Most side effects should go away with time. However, if you have bothersome side effects that won’t go away, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

If you’d like to learn more about Arava, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can help answer any questions you have about side effects of taking the drug.

Besides talking with your doctor, you can do some research on your own. These articles might help:

More information about Arava. For details about other aspects of Arava, refer to this article.
Drug comparison. To learn how Arava compares with methotrexate, read this comparison.
A look at rheumatoid arthritis (RA). For details about RA, see our arthritis hub and list of rheumatology articles.

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

Side effects and what to do about them

Arava (leflunomide) is a brand-name prescription medication. It’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults.

Here are some fast facts about Arava:

Active ingredient: leflunomide
Drug class: disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
Drug form: oral tablet

Arava is meant to be a long-term treatment for RA.

Like other drugs, Arava tablets can cause side effects. Read on to learn about potential common, mild, and serious side effects. For a general overview of Arava, see this article.

These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Arava in clinical trials:

headache
problems with digestion, such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and indigestion
skin rash
hair loss*
elevated liver enzymes, which can be a sign of liver damage†

Mild side effects can occur with Arava. This list doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Arava’s prescribing information.

Mild side effects that have been reported with Arava include:

back pain
dizziness
headache
itching
pain in the abdomen
problems with digestion, such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and indigestion
skin rash
swelling of the lining inside your nose, which can cause cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose and sneezing
swelling of the protective covering around your tendons (tissues that connect your muscles to your bones)
upper respiratory infection, such as bronchitis
weakness
hair loss*
mouth ulcers*
elevated liver enzymes, which can be a sign of liver damage†

These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Arava may cause serious side effects. The list below may not include all possible serious side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Arava’s prescribing information.

Serious side effects that have been reported and their symptoms include:

Weak immune system. Symptoms can include:
fatigue
frequent infections
abnormal levels of certain blood tests, such as neutrophils (a type of white blood cell)
Liver damage.*†
High blood pressure.†
Harm to a fetus.*‡
Allergic reaction.†

Arava may cause several side effects. Here are some frequently asked questions about the drug’s side effects and their answers.