Arava

What is it?

Composition

The drug Arava contains the active substance leflunomide, which is the main component that provides its therapeutic effect. Leflunomide belongs to the class of isoxazoles and acts by inhibiting enzymes involved in the division and activity of immune cells, which helps reduce inflammation and autoimmune reactions.

In addition to the main component, the composition includes excipients that improve the stability and absorption of the drug:

• Lactose monohydrate - ensures the stability of tablets and improves their absorption.
• Pregelatinized starch - used to shape the tablet.
• Magnesium stearate - improves the glide and compression of components during the manufacturing process.
• Talc and colloidal silica anhydrous - contribute to the optimal distribution of the active substance.

Each component in the composition is carefully selected to ensure maximum effectiveness and ease of use of the drug.

How to use?

Arava is taken orally and its dosage is prescribed by the doctor individually depending on the diagnosis, general health condition and the bodys response to treatment. Usually, therapy begins with a loading dose, after which the maintenance dose is continued.

Directions for use:

1. The initial dose is 100 mg once a day for the first three days.
2. After the initial phase, the maintenance dose is usually 20 mg once a day. If necessary, it can be reduced to 10 mg for patients with low tolerance to the drug.
3. The tablets should be taken whole with a sufficient amount of water, regardless of food intake.

The duration of treatment is determined by the doctor, based on the severity of symptoms and the dynamics of improvement of the patients condition. It is important to strictly follow the doctors instructions and not exceed the recommended dose to avoid possible side effects.

How does it work?

Arava works thanks to its active ingredient, leflunomide, which is a powerful inhibitor of the enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase. This enzyme is involved in the synthesis of pyrimidines, molecules necessary for cell division. By suppressing its activity, the drug slows down the proliferation of lymphocytes, which play a key role in the development of inflammation and autoimmune processes.

The effect of leflunomide is manifested in several directions. It reduces the production of cytokines and antibodies that stimulate inflammation, thereby reducing the severity of disease symptoms such as pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. At the same time, Arava prevents tissue damage and disease progression by slowing down the destruction of joints.

The mechanism of action makes it effective with long-term use, allowing you to control the course of chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Indications

Arava is used to treat chronic inflammatory joint diseases accompanied by autoimmune processes. The main goal of therapy is to reduce inflammation, improve the functional state of the joints and prevent their further destruction.

The drug is prescribed for the following conditions:

• Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease accompanied by joint damage, pain and inflammation.
• Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis associated with psoriasis, which manifests itself as joint pain and skin inflammation.

The effectiveness of the drug makes it an indispensable component of basic therapy for these diseases, especially in cases where standard treatment is insufficient.

Contraindications

Despite its high efficiency, Arava has a number of contraindications, in which its use may be unsafe. Before starting treatment, you should consult a doctor and exclude the presence of the conditions listed below.

The drug is contraindicated in:

• Allergic reaction to leflunomide or other components of the drug.
• Severe liver dysfunction, including cirrhosis and severe liver failure.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding - leflunomide can cause teratogenic effects.
• Immunodeficiency states, including HIV infection and severe forms of bone marrow diseases.
• Severe renal dysfunction.
• Pathologies accompanied by severe suppression of hematopoiesis (eg, anemia, leukopenia or thrombocytopenia).

Caution should also be exercised when prescribing to elderly patients and people with chronic infections. It is important to discuss all possible risks with your doctor before starting to take Arava.

Side effects

When using Arava, side effects may occur that are due to its effect on the immune system and metabolic processes. Most side effects are reversible and disappear after stopping treatment or reducing the dosage, but it is important to closely monitor your condition during therapy.

The most common side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal disorders: nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite.
• Skin reactions: rash, itching, dry skin.
• General symptoms: fatigue, headache, increased blood pressure.
• Changes in laboratory parameters: decreased levels of leukocytes, platelets or hemoglobin.
• Liver dysfunction: increased activity of liver enzymes, rarely - hepatitis.

If severe side effects occur or the condition worsens, it is recommended to immediately consult a doctor to adjust the dosage or replace the drug.