Question
I am a woman (56) suffering from rheumatoid arthritis my doctor has suggested regular & prolong use of a mdecine called Aviva. Could you please let me know whether this drug has any known side effects and Would you advise it’s prolong use for rheumatoid arthritis.
Answer
I am guessing that you mean “Arava” or leflunomide. Look on this site for further information. The main side effect of Arava is liver test abnormalities and thus it must be used with caution in patients with liver disease or a history of heavy alcohol use. Blood testing on a regular basis is very important. Occasionally, diarrhea can occur when starting the drug, but this almost always improves without having to stop the drug.
