Arava

Arava is used for:

Reducing signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. It is also used to improve physical function and to prevent the development of structural damage to the joints.

Arava is a pyrimidine synthesis inhibitor. It is thought to work by blocking certain enzymes responsible for abnormal tissue development or growth.

Do NOT use Arava if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Arava
• you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Arava :

Some medical conditions may interact with Arava . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

• if you are breast-feeding
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
• if you have a weakened immune system, blood or bone marrow disorders, an infection, or have recently received a vaccination
• if you have hepatitis B or C or other liver problems, kidney problems, or drink alcoholic beverages

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Arava . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

• Cholestyramine because the effectiveness of Arava may be decreased
• Methotrexate or rifampin because side effects, including liver toxicity, headache, and muscle pains, may occur
• Anticoagulants (eg, warfarin) because side effects, including risk of bleeding, may be increased by Arava

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Arava may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.