Leflunomide

The drug leflunomide is prescribed to treat rheumatoid arthritis. It works to help relieve symptoms, increase physical function, and slow down the progression of the disease. This medication comes in the form of a tablet and is taken once a day. While most people have no problems with this medicine, side effects are possible and can include hair loss, diarrhea, and a rash.

What Is Leflunomide?

Leflunomide (Arava®) is a prescription medication approved to treat rheumatoid arthritis. It may be used alone or in combination with other medicines, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, or corticosteroids (prednisone, for example).
 
(Click What Is Leflunomide Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, leflunomide can cause side effects.
 However, not everyone who uses the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
 
If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Common leflunomide side effects include but are not limited to:
 
 
(Click Leflunomide Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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