Aray Special Precautions

Talk to the doctor, pharmacist or nurse before taking Aray: if with history of suffering from inflammation of the lung (interstitial lung disease); if with history of tuberculosis or being in close contact with someone who has or has had tuberculosis [tests may be performed by the doctor to see if positive for tuberculosis]; if male and wishing to father a child (see as follows); if due to have a specific blood test (calcium level) [falsely low levels of calcium can be detected].
As it cannot be excluded that Aray passes into semen, reliable contraception should be used during treatment with Aray. Men wishing to father a child should contact their doctor who may advise them to stop taking Aray and take certain medicines to remove Aray rapidly and sufficiently from their body. A blood test will then be needed to make sure that Aray has been sufficiently removed from the body, and then at least another 3 months should be waited before attempting to father a child.
Aray can occasionally cause some problems with the blood, liver, lungs, or nerves in the arms or legs. It may also cause some serious allergic reactions (including Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms [DRESS]), or increase the chance of a severe infection. For more information on these, see Side Effects.
DRESS appears initially as flu-like symptoms and a rash on the face, then an extended rash with a high temperature, increased levels of liver enzymes seen in blood tests and an increase in a type of white blood cell (eosinophilia) and enlarged lymph nodes.
Rare cases of severe liver injury, including cases with fatal outcome, have been reported during treatment with leflunomide. Most of the cases occurred within the first 6 months of treatment. Cotreatment with other hepatotoxic medicinal products was frequently present. It is considered essential that monitoring recommendations are strictly adhered to.
The doctor will carry out blood tests at regular intervals, before and during treatment with Aray, to monitor the blood cells and liver. The doctor will also check the blood pressure regularly as Aray can cause an increase in blood pressure.
Tell the doctor if having unexplained chronic diarrhoea. The doctor may perform additional tests for differential diagnosis.
Aray contains lactose: If with an intolerance to some sugars as told by the doctor, contact the doctor before taking this medicine.
Driving and using machines: Aray can cause dizziness which may impair the ability to concentrate and react. If affected, do not drive or use machines.
Use in Children: Aray is not recommended for use in children and adolescents below 18 years of age.