Compare methotrexate vs. Arava

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Reduces inflammation and cell replication.

Otrexup (methotrexate) is the first-choice treatment for many types of cancer and arthritis, but it has many side effects.

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Upsides
  • Otrexup (methotrexate) is available as an affordable generic form.
  • Otrexup (methotrexate) comes as a tablet, an injection that you give yourself, or an infusion that you get in the doctor's office or infusion center.
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Downsides
  • You may need frequent blood tests for monitoring when taking Otrexup (methotrexate).
  • Otrexup (methotrexate) can cause serious birth defects so women should avoid getting pregnant for at least 6 month and men 3 months after taking it.
  • While on Otrexup (methotrexate), you should avoid alcohol and staying out in the sun for too long.
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Used for
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Crohn's disease Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis Psoriatic arthritis
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Injection
  • Liquid
  • Pill
Price
Lowest price
$456.60
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Lowest price
$27.95
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Reviews
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Side effects
4possible side effects
  • Abnormal liver function tests
    14%
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
    11%
  • Mouth inflammation and sores
    2%
  • Low white blood count
    2%
See more detailed side effects
The Arava (Leflunomide) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
  • Bone marrow suppression
  • Worsening side-effects
    • Reduced kidney function
    • fluid in the abdomen
    • fluid in the lungs
  • Use of NSAIDs
    • NSAIDS
    • High dose of methotrexate
  • Liver problems
    • Long-term use
    • Psoriasis
  • Lung problems
  • Diarrhea and mouth sores
    • Taking Otrexup (methotrexate) with high-dose NSAIDs
  • Tumor lysis syndrome
    • Rapidly growing tumors
  • Skin reactions
  • Infections
  • White blood cell cancer
  • Skin and bone tissue deterioration
    • Radiotherapy
See more detailed risks and warnings
No information currently available
Learn more about Otrexup (methotrexate)
Learn more about Arava (Leflunomide)