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Leflunomide

Brand names: Arava

Leflunomide treats rheumatoid arthritis and slows joint damage.

Brand namesArava
Type of medicineDMARD
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It stays in the body for a long time; a 'washout' medicine can remove it if needed.

What it's used for

  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Off-label: psoriatic arthritis

How to take it

  • Take it once a day.
  • Keep all blood test appointments for liver and blood counts.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Hair thinning
  • Higher blood pressure
  • Rash
Call your provider todayYellow skin or eyes or dark urine
Call your provider todayFever, chills, sore throat, or other signs of infection
Call your provider todayNew cough or shortness of breath
Call 911A blistering, peeling, or widespread red rash, especially with fever

Warnings

  • Boxed warnings: serious birth defects and liver injury.
  • It weakens the immune system, raising the risk of serious infections. Avoid live vaccines.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Methotrexate and other liver-affecting medicines add to liver risk.
  • Limit alcohol.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

It causes birth defects. Don't take it during pregnancy; a washout is needed before trying to conceive.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.