Arava (Leflunomide) Basics: What Parents Need to Know
If your child has been prescribed Arava, you probably have a lot of questions. Arava is the brand name for leflunomide, a drug that helps control inflammation in conditions like juvenile arthritis. It works by slowing down the immune system, which reduces joint swelling and pain. Knowing how to give it correctly can make a big difference in how well your kid feels.
How Arava Works and When It’s Used
In simple terms, leflunomide blocks a chemical that immune cells need to multiply. Fewer immune cells mean less inflammation. Doctors usually consider Arava when other medicines haven’t kept the disease under control or when daily steroids cause unwanted side effects. It’s taken once a day, often with food, to keep blood levels steady.
Key Dosing Tips and Safety Checks
Getting the dose right is the cornerstone of a safe treatment plan. For kids, the dose is calculated based on weight – typically 10 mg per kilogram of body weight, up to a maximum of 20 mg per day. The first dose is often lower (about half the daily amount) to see how the body reacts. Your pharmacist can help you split tablets if needed.
Before starting Arava, the doctor will run a set of baseline labs: liver enzymes, blood counts, and kidney function. These numbers let the clinician spot any hidden issues early. After the first few weeks, the same labs are checked again, and then every three months as long as the medicine continues.
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember—unless it’s almost time for the next one. In that case, just skip the missed dose and keep to the regular schedule. Doubling up can raise the risk of liver problems.
Side effects are usually mild but worth watching. The most common complaints are stomach upset, mild diarrhea, and a temporary rise in blood pressure. A small number of children develop a rash or notice changes in hair texture. The biggest red flag is any sign of liver trouble: yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent fatigue. If any of these pop up, call your doctor right away.
Pregnancy is another important safety point. Leflunomide can stay in the body for months, so women of child‑bearing age must use effective birth control while on the drug and for at least six months after stopping. Doctors have a special “wash‑out” procedure to clear the medication faster if pregnancy is planned.
When you’re at home, keep a medication diary. Note the dose, time, and any side effects you notice. This record helps the doctor adjust the plan quickly and gives you peace of mind when you’re juggling school, sports, and appointments.
Finally, remember that Arava is just one part of a broader treatment plan. Physical therapy, regular exercise, and a balanced diet all support joint health. Talk to your pediatric rheumatologist about how to combine these strategies for the best outcome.
Arava can be a game‑changer for kids struggling with chronic joint inflammation, but it works best when families stay informed and proactive. Keep lab appointments, track side effects, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your health team whenever something feels off.
