Ariva Tablet 20mg

About Ariva Tablet 20mg

Uses

• Active rheumatoid arthritis in adults
• Active psoriatic arthritis
• Reducing joint pain, swelling and stiffness from autoimmune arthritis

Benefits

• Slows joint damage caused by ongoing inflammation
• Reduces the number of tender and swollen joints over time
• Can be used alone or combined with other arthritis medicines
• Helps many patients stay active in daily life and work

What Experts Say

Rheumatologists consider this medicine a mainstay treatment for active rheumatoid arthritis when standard therapy is not enough on its own. It works by slowing the overactive immune response that damages joint tissue over time. Many specialists appreciate that its effects build gradually, offering steadier long term control of inflammation compared to short acting pain relievers.

Experts stress that regular blood monitoring is not optional with this medicine. Liver enzymes, blood counts and blood pressure are checked at set intervals because the drug can affect the liver and bone marrow in some patients. Doctors usually explain this monitoring plan clearly before starting treatment so patients understand why repeat visits matter.

Because the medicine stays in the body for a long time, specialists are firm about contraception for anyone who could become pregnant, and some patients undergo a drug elimination procedure if pregnancy is planned. Physicians also advise reporting any signs of infection quickly, since the drug lowers the immune system's ability to fight germs effectively.

Drug Class

• Disease modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD)
• Pyrimidine synthesis inhibitor

Ariva Tablet 20mg formula

• Leflunomide

Available forms

• Tablet

How to use Ariva Tablet 20mg?

• Take exactly as prescribed by your rheumatologist, usually once daily
• Swallow the tablet whole with water, with or without food
• Do not stop the medicine suddenly without medical advice
• Attend all scheduled blood tests while on this treatment

Drug Interactions

• Methotrexate: Combined use raises the risk of liver toxicity.
• Warfarin: This medicine can increase the blood thinning effect, requiring closer monitoring.
• Live Vaccines: Should be avoided while on this treatment due to lowered immunity.
• Rifampicin: Can raise leflunomide levels in the blood.

Risks and warnings

• Liver Damage: Regular liver function tests are required throughout treatment.
• Pregnancy: Strictly avoided in pregnancy due to risk of birth defects, effective contraception is essential.
• Infection Risk: Lowers immune defenses, report any fever or infection to your doctor promptly.
• Blood Counts: Can reduce white blood cells and platelets, needing periodic monitoring.

Ariva Tablet 20mg Side Effects

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Hair thinning
• Raised liver enzymes
• High blood pressure
• Rash or itching

Storage Conditions

• Store below 30 degrees C away from heat and moisture
• Keep the tablets in the original blister pack until use
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use beyond the printed expiry date