Leflunomide is a medication used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. It belongs to a class of medications known as DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs) that can help slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness associated with the condition.

Leflunomide is available under the brand name Arava and comes in the form of a tablet, which is taken by mouth.

Some of the most common side effects of leflunomide include:

Diarrhea
vomiting
heartburn
headache
dizziness
weight loss
back pain
muscle pain or weakness
pain, burning, numbness, or tingling in the hands or feet
hair loss
leg cramps

This is not a complete list of adverse effects – though these are among the most common. Seek medical attention right away if you experience symptoms such as rash, fever, blisters or peeling of the skin, difficulty breathing, a new or worsening cough, chest pain, or pale skin while taking leflunomide.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, as well as any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with leflunomide. Leflunomide can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects.

Leflunamide carries a black box warning for severe liver damage, which means that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has qualified it as a high-risk drug. ​This means that patients with preexisting liver disease, patients who have elevated liver enzyme levels, or patients who have a history of heavy drinking shouldn't take the drug.

In addition, do not take leflunomide if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this medication, as it may harm the fetus. You must use an effective method of birth control before, during, and for 2 years after leflunomide treatment.

Leflunomide comes in the form of an oral tablet, which is typically taken once per day depending on your diagnosis. However, you should take the medication exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes. Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of leflunomide without consulting with your provider first. If you begin to experience adverse side effects while taking this medication, like those listed above, inform your provider right away.

Leflunomide should be stored in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and kept out of the reach of children.

Leflunomide is currently only available via prescription. This means a licensed health care provider must authorize the use of this drug.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not leflunomide is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for leflunomide to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.