Description
Indications
Ridaura is an oral medication used to treat active rheumatoid arthritis in selected patients who are unable to tolerate non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It lowers cell growth and antibody activity to help with the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Ridaura will not reverse any cartilage or joint damage that has already occurred in your body.
Ridaura contains active ingredient called Auranofin.Auranofin is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). It is also a form of gold that reduces some of the effects of the inflammatory process in the body.
Auranofin is primarily used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation and damage to the joints. It is used to relieve symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints, and to slow the progression of the disease.
Use and Dosage
Ridaura is an oral tablet that can be taken with or without food, usually once or twice a day as directed by your doctor. The dosage is determined based on your medical condition and response to therapy, and to reduce the risk of side effects like upset stomach, your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it.
The recommended dose of Ridaura is 6 mg per day, taken as two 3 mg capsules once a day. The maximum adult dose is typically 9 milligrams per day Ridaura capsules should be taken by mouth with a full glass of water and should be taken at the same time each day. Continue taking Ridaura as prescribed, even if you feel better.
Do not stop taking Ridaura without first talking to your doctor, as stopping suddenly can cause a flare-up of your symptoms. Follow any other instructions provided by your doctor, such as getting regular blood tests, while taking Ridaura. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Ridaura capsules, you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Ridaura (Auranofin):
- Blisters or ulcers in your mouth
- Diarrhea
- Itching
- Loose stools
- Rash
- Red or swollen gums
- Trouble swallowing
Serious Side Effects of Ridaura (Auranofin):
- Black, bloody, or tarry stools
- Blood in your urine
- Dry cough
- Easy bruising
- Feeling short of breath
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Pale skin
- Puffy eyes
- Purple or red spots under your skin
- Severe or ongoing diarrhea
- Severe skin rash or itching
- Sudden chest pain
- Swelling in your ankles or feet
- Unusual bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums)
- Unusual tiredness
- Urine that looks foamy
- Vomiting
- Wheezing
Forms and Strength
Ridaura (Auranofin) is available in the following forms and strength:
Ridaura: Capsule
- 3 mg
Cautions
- Ridaura should not be used in patients with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to gold or auranofin.
- Ridaura may cause serious side effects, such as bone marrow suppression, liver damage and lung damage. Thus, patients should be regularly monitored for these issues.
- Ridaura should be used with caution in patients with a history of certain medical conditions, such as blood disorders, liver or kidney disease, and lung or breathing problems.
- Ridaura may interact with certain medications, including NSAIDs and certain antibiotics, inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking.
- Ridaura should not be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it may harm the fetus or neonate.
- Ridaura may cause skin reactions, so patients should be advised to report any rashes or itching to their healthcare provider.
- Ridaura may cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms may be managed by taking the medication with food or by dividing the doses throughout the day.
- Ridaura should be used with caution in patients with a history of tuberculosis or other chronic infections, as it may suppress the immune system.
- Ridaura should not be used in patients who are immunosuppressed or have a history of cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for Ridaura (Auranofin) to work?
It may take several weeks or months of treatment with Ridaura (Auranofin) before you start to feel an improvement in your symptoms. Continue taking the medication as directed by your doctor.
Is Ridaura (Auranofin) safe to use during pregnancy?
No, Ridaura (Auranofin) is not recommended for use during pregnancy, as it may cause harm to the developing fetus. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should talk to their doctor about alternative treatment options.
Can Ridaura (Auranofin) be used to treat other conditions besides rheumatoid arthritis?
While Ridaura (Auranofin) is primarily used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, it may also be used to treat other conditions, such as psoriasis and ulcerative colitis, in some cases. However, this is not a common use of medication.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Ridaura (Auranofin)?
If you miss a dose of Ridaura (Auranofin), take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Is Ridaura (Auranofin) addictive?
No, Ridaura (Auranofin) is not an addictive medication.
Resources
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/auranofin
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/ridaura.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7009/ridaura-oral/details
- https://www.goodrx.com/ridaura/what-is
- https://xediton.com/product/ridaura/
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=05c34ddf-a0f7-4267-83f5-d02be3defc37
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