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...)

 This AI-generated response comes from myRAteam and other selected sources. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Arava (Leflunomide) for Rheumatoid Arthritis | myRAteam

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis Drug Side Effects: What Every RA Patient Should Know