Patient Information - Auranofin ('Gold')

Auranofin ('Gold')

or-an-oh-fin

What does it do?

Auranofin is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

Before you start

Tell your doctor if you have blood, blood pressure, kidney, liver, lung, or skin problems, an inflammatory bowel condition, or if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take auranofin regularly as directed. Take with food and a glass of water.

What if you forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on as normal. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Reduced number of blood cells that fight infections or help your blood to clot - symptoms include: fever, chills, sore throat or generally feeling unwell, or easy or unusual bruising or bleeding Pain or ulcers inside mouth or on tongue Skin rash, itching Trouble breathing	Tell your doctor immediately
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, change of appetite, indigestion	Tell your doctor
Irritation/redness of the eyes Changes in taste Hair loss or thinning	Tell your doctor if troublesome

Side Effects

Recommended action

Reduced number of blood cells that fight infections or help your blood to clot - symptoms include: fever, chills, sore throat or generally feeling unwell, or easy or unusual bruising or bleeding

Pain or ulcers inside mouth or on tongue

Skin rash, itching

Trouble breathing

Tell your doctor immediately

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, change of appetite, indigestion

Tell your doctor

Irritation/redness of the eyes

Changes in taste

Hair loss or thinning

Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

Auranofin may affect your kidneys and blood. Regular blood and urine tests will be necessary to monitor these effects.
Protect yourself from too much sunlight while being treated with auranofin. Always cover up and apply a thick layer of broad spectrum sunscreen (at least SPF 30) when outside. Do not use sunbeds.
To reduce the risk of side effects, take care of your teeth and gums (brush and floss your teeth).
You may not notice the effects of auranofin straight away – discuss this with your doctor.
Auranofin is not registered for use in New Zealand. Discuss with your doctor.