Arthera tablet is indicated for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a common autoimmune disease. It is a conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (csDMARD) that has also shown promise in treating other rheumatic and autoimmune conditions, including Sjögren's syndrome, ankylosing spondylitis, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Immunomodulatory Effects : Iguratimod works by acting on both T and B lymphocytes to suppress the immune response. Anti-inflammatory Action : It inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-17, which contribute to inflammation. Osteoprotective Activity : Iguratimod promotes bone formation while inhibiting the differentiation and activity of bone-resorbing osteoclasts.
Usual Adult Dose (Rheumatoid Arthritis): 25 mg orally twice daily (morning and evening) after meals. In some cases, physicians may start with 25 mg once daily for 1-2 weeks to improve tolerance, then increase to 25 mg twice daily. Notes: Dose adjustments are usually not required in mild renal/hepatic impairment, but the drug should be used with caution. It is not typically recommended for children (safety and efficacy not established). Regular monitoring of liver function, renal function, and blood counts is required. Often used alone or in combination with methotrexate or other DMARDs.
Common side effects Gastrointestinal: nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, indigestion General: headache, dizziness, tiredness Laboratory findings: mild increase in liver enzymes (ALT, AST), sometimes mild decrease in blood counts
Always consult a registered doctor before taking any medicine. This information is for general knowledge only.
Hypersensitivity to Iguratimod or formulation components. Severe hepatic impairment. Pregnancy and breastfeeding (teratogenic risk and not enough safety data).
Liver toxicity May cause elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST). Requires regular liver function tests (LFTs) (baseline, then periodically). Stop if significant hepatotoxicity occurs. Bone marrow suppression Can cause leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia, or thrombocytopenia. Monitor CBC regularly. Renal impairment Use with caution; monitor renal function. Infections Being an immunomodulator, it can increase risk of infections (respiratory, urinary, etc.). Avoid use in patients with active infections (e.g., TB, hepatitis). Gastrointestinal effects Nausea, dyspepsia, diarrhea may occur. Take after meals to reduce GI upset. Pregnancy & breastfeeding Contraindicated; may cause fetal harm. Effective contraception is required during treatment and for some time after discontinuation. Drug interactions Use caution with other immunosuppressants, DMARDs, hepatotoxic drugs, or anticoagulants. Combination with methotrexate is common but needs close monitoring.