Uses of Leflunomide

Leflunomide is used to treat active rheumatoid arthritis and active psoriatic arthritis.

Therapeutic Category

Leflunomide: Antirheumatic Drugs 

How Leflunomide works

Leflunomide acts by inhibiting an enzyme which results in stopping the activated and autoimmune white blood cells. This inhibition leads to anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects which results in reduced inflammation and slow down the progression of arthritis.

Common side effects of Leflunomide

• mild allergic reactions
• loss of appetite, weight loss
• tiredness
• headache, dizziness
• abnormal skin sensations like tingling (paraesthesia)
• mild increase in blood pressure
• diarrhoea, inflammation of colon
• nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain
• mouth ulcers or swelling of the mouth
• increased hair loss
• eczema, dry skin, rash, itching
• tendonitis (pain in feet or hands caused by inflammation in the membrane surrounding the tendons)
• problems affecting the nerves of the arms or legs 

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• in case of accidental overdosage
• if you experience serious allergic reaction (signs include weakness, light-headedness or dizzy or have difficulty breathing)
• if you experience skin rash and ulcers in mouth (Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systematic Symptoms (DRESS]), stevens-johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis)
• if you experience blood disorders (signs include pale skin, tiredness, bruising)
• if you experience signs of liver failure (signs include tiredness, abdominal pain and jaundice)
• if you experience signs of infection (signs include cough, fever and sore throat)
• if you experience coughing or breathing problems (signs include interstitial lung disease or pulmonary hypertension)
• if you experience signs of peripheral neuropathy (unusual tingling, weakness or pain in the hands or feet)

Health Tips for Leflunomide

• Leflunomide may cause harm to an unborn baby. It is important to use reliable contraception during treatment and for a certain period of time after stopping Leflunomide, as recommended by your doctor. If you become pregnant while taking Leflunomide, inform your doctor immediately
• Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Leflunomide as it may increase the risk of liver problems