Leflunomide 10mg

Leflunomide 10mg Uses

Leflunomide 10mg is prescribed to:

• Manage rheumatoid arthritis by reducing inflammation and preventing joint damage.
• Treat psoriatic arthritis, an autoimmune condition affecting both skin and joints.
• Improve physical function and reduce symptoms of autoimmune diseases.

How Does Leflunomide 10mg Work

Leflunomide inhibits the enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, which is necessary for the production of pyrimidine, a building block of DNA and RNA. By blocking this enzyme, Leflunomide reduces the proliferation of activated immune cells responsible for inflammation and joint damage.

How to Use Leflunomide 10mg

• Take Leflunomide 10mg exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water, with or without food.
• Leflunomide may be combined with a loading dose or other medications as part of a treatment plan; follow your doctor’s instructions.
• Regular monitoring of liver function and blood counts is necessary during treatment.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Headache
• Hair thinning or loss

Rare but serious side effects include:

• Severe liver damage, with symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain
• Bone marrow suppression, with signs like unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome
• Increased risk of infections due to immune suppression

Drug Interactions

Leflunomide 10mg may interact with:

• Immunosuppressive medications, which may increase the risk of infections.
• Methotrexate, which may amplify liver toxicity.
• Warfarin, which may require dose adjustments to prevent bleeding.
• Live vaccines, which should be avoided during treatment.

Food Interactions

• Leflunomide 10mg can be taken with or without food.
• Avoid alcohol, as it may increase the risk of liver damage.

Leflunomide 10mg Contraindications

This medication is not suitable for:

• Individuals allergic to Leflunomide or any of its components.
• Pregnant women or those planning to conceive, due to the risk of severe birth defects.
• Patients with severe liver impairment or a history of liver disease.

Precautions and Warnings

• Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, kidney problems, or infections.
• Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and until the drug is cleared from the body.
• Leflunomide remains in the body for a long time; your doctor may recommend a drug elimination procedure if rapid clearance is necessary.
• Avoid contact with individuals who have contagious infections, as Leflunomide suppresses the immune system.

Storage

• Store Leflunomide 10mg tablets at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• Keep the tablets in their original packaging and out of reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of unused or expired tablets responsibly, following local disposal regulations.

Safety Information

• Use Leflunomide 10mg only as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Do not skip doses or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
• Report any unusual symptoms, such as persistent diarrhea, jaundice, or signs of infection, to your healthcare provider immediately.