Arava Linked to Liver Damage or Failure
The popular rheumatoid arthritis drug Arava (leflunomide) has been used by more than 200,000 patients since its introduction in 1998. Since then, Arava has been shown to have a death rate 33 times the death rate of patients taking a competitive rheumatoid drug (methotrexate).
Arava’s manufacturer, Aventis Pharmaceuticals, recently sent a letter to doctors warning them of the possibility of liver damage/failure and other dangerous side effects. (The Food and Drug Administration is currently considering further action to warn patients of the dangers of Arava.) The American College of Rheumatology has also issued a warning to patients and their doctors encouraging monthly blood tests during the patient’s first six months using Arava, with additional tests every two to three months thereafter.
Arava has been linked to the following side-effects:
- Liver damage
- Liver Failure
- Hypertension
- Steven-Johnson Syndrome
- Lymphoma
- Death
WARNING: Even after discontinuing Arava, this drug can remain in the body tissues for some time. Patients should be aware the side-effects may occur after discontinuance.
