Auranofin (By mouth)

Introduction:

Auranofin (aw-RAN-o-fin)

Treats rheumatoid arthritis by relieving joint pain and swelling. Auranofin is a gold compound.

Brand Name(s):

Ridaura

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to any medicine containing gold. The reaction may have included hives, swelling, peeling skin, trouble breathing, or lung or blood problems.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule

  • Take this medicine exactly as your doctor ordered.
  • Auranofin does not work right away. You may not notice any effects until after 3 to 6 months of use.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you take one dose a day, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and just take your 1 dose for the day.
  • If you take more than one dose a day, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. But, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your medicine at your usual time.
  • You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking phenytoin (Dilantin®) or penicillamine (Cuprimine®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Check with your doctor before taking auranofin if you have a blood disorder, lupus, colitis, or kidney, liver, or skin disease.
  • Talk with your doctor before taking the medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • This medicine can make your skin sensitive to sunlight and cause a rash, redness, itching, or severe sunburn. Use a sunscreen when outdoors. Avoid tanning beds or sunlamps.
  • You should keep your teeth, gums, and mouth clean (careful brushing, flossing, and regular visits to dentist) when taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Coughing or trouble breathing
  • Fever, chills, sore throat
  • Bloody or black tarry stools
  • Bloody, cloudy, or foaming urine
  • Skin rash, itching, or peeling skin
  • Metallic taste and sores in the mouth or throat
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Unusual tiredness or weakness
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
  • Stomach cramps, gas, or poor appetite
  • Hair loss
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