What is Imuran?Imuran (azathioprine) is an immunosuppressant that changes the DNA structure of certain cells.It is used for rheumatoid arthritis that is difficult to treat and does not respond to other agents.Imuran in a dosage of 1 to 2.5 milligrams is generally given per kilogram of body weight. If your doctor weighs you before beginning this agent, this is why.Nausea, vomiting, belly pain, and occasionally hepatitis or problems with the making of blood cells are seen with this agent. If you also have gout and are taking the drug allopurinal (Zyloprim), make sure you tell your doctor, as your Imuran dosage will have to be adjusted.
What is leflunomide?This drug’s brand name is Arava. It is another drug that acts on the DNA of cells like the T cells. It is new and quite useful in the treatment of RA and is as effective as methotrexate or sulfasalazine.The doctor gives you a loading dose in order to get the blood levels of the drug up to therapeutic levels in your body: The patient is started with 100 milligrams per day for three days. After three days, the dose is lowered to 20 milligrams daily. If the patient tolerates the drug, the dose can be lowered to 10 milligrams per day.Diarrhea is the most frequent side effect. Changes in the liver function tests, reversible hair loss, and a rash are all part of this drug’s side effects.Women who expect to become pregnant and men expecting to father a child should discontinue the drug and replace it with cholestyramine for eleven days to bind up the drug and eliminate it. Your doctor can test your blood levels to make sure that it is out of your system before you get pregnant or father a child.*35/141/5*
