৳ 1/unit
Pack: ৳ 1
৳ 1/unit
Pack: ৳ 1
At a glance
Leflunomide is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. It slows down disease progression and provides relief from pain, swelling, and redness. It is an immunomodulating agent and DMARD.
Indications
- Active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) - reducing signs and symptoms and structural damage
- Psoriatic arthritis
Pharmacology
Leflunomide inhibits de novo pyrimidine synthesis by inhibiting dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, which blocks activated T cell proliferation and produces anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Loading dose: 100 mg once daily for 3 days
- Maintenance dose: 10-20 mg once daily
- May be reduced to 10 mg daily if tolerability issues arise
Hepatic Impairment: Contraindicated
Renal Impairment: Mild: No dose adjustment; Moderate-Severe: Contraindicated
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Respiratory infection
- Bronchitis
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Aggravation of pre-existing hypertension
- Alopecia
- Rash
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Leflunomide is highly unsafe during pregnancy. Studies on pregnant women and animals have shown significant harmful effects to the developing baby. Completely contraindicated.
Pregnancy Category: X — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
- Highly unsafe during pregnancy - avoid pregnancy
- Do not use during breastfeeding
- Monitor liver function before and during treatment
- Avoid alcohol (risk of liver damage)
- Increased risk of infection - avoid close contact with people with cold or flu
- Caution when driving or activities requiring concentration (may cause dizziness or drowsiness)
Overdose effects
No human experience with overdose. In case of significant overdose or toxicity, cholestyramine or activated charcoal administration is recommended to accelerate elimination.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture; keep out of reach of children.