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Arava, also known as leflunomide, is an immunosuppressant and a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Here's how it works and its side effects:

How Arava Works
- Mechanism: Arava suppresses the immune system by preventing the production of DNA in certain cells, including immune Show Full Answer

Arava, also known as leflunomide, is an immunosuppressant and a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Here's how it works and its side effects:

How Arava Works:
- Mechanism: Arava suppresses the immune system by preventing the production of DNA in certain cells, including immune cells. This causes those cells to die, reducing autoimmune attacks.
- Benefits: It helps reduce joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, improves function, and prevents damage caused by rheumatoid arthritis.

Side Effects:
- Common Side Effects:
- Diarrhea
- Respiratory tract infections
- Nausea
- Headache
- Rash
- Indigestion
- Hair loss
- Stomach pain
- Liver toxicity
- Skin rashes

- Serious Side Effects (rare but severe):
- Severe infections
- Low blood cell counts
- Potentially fatal lung disease
- Nerve damage
- Elevated blood pressure
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a potentially fatal skin reaction)

For more details, you can visit the following resources:
- [Arava — Sanofi](https://products.sanofi.us/arava/arava.html)
- [Leflunomide (Arava) — American College of Rheumatology](https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Car...)

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Arava (Leflunomide) for Rheumatoid Arthritis | myRAteam

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