DMARD Drugs Used to Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis

DMARD stands for disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug. This classification of drugs is typically used to slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.

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Although all prescription drug medications have side effects, Arava (leflunomide) seems to have the most serious warnings and side effects. The death rate of patients using this DMARD is 33 times higher than its drug medication competitor Methotrexate. The Public Citizen action group filed a petition to the Federal Drug Administration requesting the immediate ban of Arava stating; "With a variety of better drug treatments available, there is no reason to subject patients to an accumulating list of added risks. (Arava) should be promptly removed from the market."

People seeking RA arthritis pain relief should carefully evaluate Arava information and side effects before deciding to take Arava. It is important to note that Arava might slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis it does not provide rheumatoid arthritis cures.

A letter from the Public Citizen's Health Research Group, sent in conjunction with the Public Citizen petition, stated; "To have this many deaths and severe reactions over such a short time is truly disturbing. When there are other treatments that are more effective and don't endanger patients as much as this drug, there is absolutely no reason for the FDA to keep Arava on the market."

The European Agency for the Evaluation of Medical Products issued warnings in 2001 to doctors and patients citing nine liver failure deaths in Arava patients. Also in 2001, Arava manufacturer Aventis Pharmaceuticals issued Arava warnings to doctors.

MSNBC reported in 2002 that Arava was linked to 12 liver failure deaths. If prescribing this particular DMARD, your doctor will test liver function before starting the drug and will continue monthly blood tests for an extended period afterward.

Arava can also lower resistance to infections and can make infections harder to treat. It can suppress the immune system. While taking this drug, avoid immunization shots with live vaccines. Avoid exposure to chickenpox and measles while taking Arava.

Arava Side Effects:

Tendon inflammation.
Joint pain and inflammation.
Bone pain.
Bursitis.
Liver disease.
Abdominal pain.
Back pain.
Bronchitis.
Anxiety.
Reduced blood cell count.
Dizziness.
Hair loss.
High blood pressure.
Weakness.
Mouth ulcers and fungal infections in the mouth.
Respiratory infections.
Acne.
Anemia.
Blurred vision.
Gallstones.
Insomnia.
Leg cramps.
Muscle problems.
Painful urination.
Varicose veins.
Vaginal fungal infection.

If you experience an allergic reaction to Arava, immediately call your health care provider or 911. Hives, itching, rash, tightness of chest, difficulty breathing, swelling of hands, face, lips, tongue, eyes or throat indicate an allergic reaction to Arava.

Contact your health care provider immediately if you experience bruising, frequent infections, unusual fatigue or paleness. These warnings are signs of lowered blood cell count. Contact your health care provider immediately if you experience yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Arava can cause serious side effects. Only you can decide if this specific DMARD is the best means of treating your arthritis pain. It is important for people currently taking Arava to discuss side effects concerns with their physician. Ideally, the attending physician is aware of the potential health risks associated and will advise using other alternatives to minimize the risk of heart disease, liver and kidney problems and other side effects.

One alternative for rheumatoid symptoms is Arthritin, a drug-free, healthy and effective arthritis treatment scientifically formulated to strengthen and build essential cartilage, reduce pain and promote healing. The anti-inflammatory, analgesic and diuretic ingredients within Arthritin create a highly effective and powerful formula that offers relief without harmful side effects common in prescription drug medications.