Arava and Gi Issues: What Users Say

• kri...
• January 24, 2013

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "Was on Arava for a little over a year. The hair loss, pain from the hair loss, gastrointestinal problems, and the infections are just too much. My hair is so thin. I went to my doctor and had it stopped. I lost another 6 lbs in 2 months, and that is with the introduction of Ensure. I hope others have a better experience than what I did. I am 27 years old, and every day I felt life leaving me little by little."

• Rud...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 22, 2016

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "Had virtually no pain or swelling anymore. Used in combination with Humira. Had to come off, unfortunately, due to gut and intestinal issues getting severe. Did help my RA more than any other medication so far, but too many gut issues."

• M--...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• August 14, 2025

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "I have been using Arava (Leflunomide) for the management of rheumatoid arthritis following a formal diagnosis after experiencing progressive, symmetric joint pain beginning in late 2021. Initially prescribed at a dose of 20 mg daily alongside Prednisolone 5 mg, the treatment helped significantly in controlling inflammation and reducing flare-ups. After one year, I successfully tapered off Prednisolone and continued with Arava alone. Side effects that I experienced personally: 1. Mild elevation in blood pressure, which may be due to Prednisolone. 2. Elevated liver enzymes, which required dose reduction. 3. Gastrointestinal discomfort, including gastritis and headaches. Rating: 8/10. I am giving Arava a rating of 8 out of 10 due to the side effects I encountered. While the drug has been effective in controlling RA symptoms, the need for dose adjustments and management of side effects slightly diminished its overall convenience and tolerability."