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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Anyone out there on leflunomide? How is it or how has it worked for you? How long did it take to start feeling benefits??

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
July 31
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A myRAteam Member

Methotrexate worked for me for several years I didn’t really know I had RA but had 3 monthly blood tests now been taken off methotrexate after being diagnosed with auto immune hepatitis as a result of long term use of methotrexate so be careful

August 1
A myRAteam Member

Thank you. My doctor wanted to start me on 20 milligrams. I had a horrible experience with. Methotrexate so I asked him if I could just start out slow with 10 mg. I’m going on my second week and so far so good with no side effects I’m thinking after one more week I may go back up to the 20 mg that he originally wanted me to start with. I understand it can take 4 to 6 weeks to start feeling some benefits, but that it take 4 to 6 months to get the whole benefit. I’m glad it works for you. That’s great. Take care and hang in there..
Lindsay Steele

August 1
A myRAteam Member

I’ve been taking it now for 3 months. My flairs have mostly gone to sleep and I get to rest from the harsh pain in walking, sleeping and other exercise. I also love that it doesn’t cost the thousands of dollars I had to pay for other RA meds. Hope it works for you as it seems to be with me.

July 31
myRAteam

Leflunomide (Arava) is a conventional DMARD commonly prescribed for RA. It works by suppressing the overactive immune response that causes joint inflammation and damage.

In terms of timing, most people start noticing some improvement within 4 to 8 weeks, but it can take up to 3 to 6 months to feel the full benefits Show Full Answer

Leflunomide (Arava) is a conventional DMARD commonly prescribed for RA. It works by suppressing the overactive immune response that causes joint inflammation and damage.

In terms of timing, most people start noticing some improvement within 4 to 8 weeks, but it can take up to 3 to 6 months to feel the full benefits. Everyone's experience is a little different, so patience is key!

Some things worth knowing about leflunomide:

- It's often prescribed alone or alongside methotrexate
- Regular blood tests are needed to monitor liver function
- Common side effects can include nausea, diarrhea, and hair thinning
- It can raise blood pressure in some people, so monitoring is important
- It stays in the body for a long time, so stopping it requires a "washout" process if needed

If benefits aren't felt after 3 to 6 months, it may be worth having a conversation with a rheumatologist about adjusting the treatment plan. The goal is always to reach low disease activity or remission.

Keeping open communication with a rheumatologist about how it's going — including any side effects — is really the best way to get the most out of any RA treatment.

July 31

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Has anyone ever been on leflunomide? And how has it worked.

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago
January 31, 2024

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