Leflunomide

Information About Leflunomide

Uses of Leflunomide

Leflunomide is commonly used to treat psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis

How Leflunomide Works

Leflunomide is an immunomodulating agent and DMARD. It gives antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting DNA building block synthesis via inhibition of dihydroorotate dehydrogenase enzyme activity.

Side Effects of Leflunomide

Low white cell count, Mild allergic reactions, Increased CPK enzyme, Headache, Dizziness, Peripheral neuropathy, Nausea and vomiting , Abdominal pain, Loss of appetite, Weight loss

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Leflunomide Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Leflunomide as there are higher risk of liver toxicity.

Pregnancy Limited Data

Leflunomide is unsafe to use during pregnancy as it can cause serious birth defects. Contraception must be used up to 2 years after treatment to avoid the adverse effects.

Lactation Not Advisable

Leflunomide should not be used during lactation as animal studies indicate that leflunomide or its metabolites pass into breast milk.

Driving Not advisable

Leflunomide may cause side effects such as dizziness, headaches, nausea or tiredness, all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive.Therefore, patients should restrain themselves from taking the medication whilst driving.

Kidney High Risk

No dosage adjustment of Leflunomide in patients with mild kidney disease. Nevertheless, use of Leflunomide is contraindicated in patients with moderate to severe kidney disease as adverse effects cannot be excluded due to lacking clinical studies.

Liver Use With Care

Liver function should be tested prior to administration of Leflunomide as it can cause liver impairment. Hence, it should not be used with other medications that can cause liver toxicity. Frequent liver function monitoring is required.