Leflunomide
Information about Leflunomide
Leflunomide uses
Leflunomide is used in the treatment of Rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
How leflunomide works
Leflunomide blocks the action of certain chemical messengers that are responsible for inflammation, swelling and redness associated with certain autoimmune diseases.
It suppresses the underlying disease process, rather than simply treating the disease.
Common side effects of leflunomide
Nausea, Headache, Dyspepsia, Rash, Diarrhea, Increased liver enzymes, Respiratory tract infection
Content Details
Last updated on:
06 Jun 2019 | 12:19 PM (IST)
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Expert advice for Leflunomide
- You have been prescribed Leflunomide to control the symptoms and slow down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.
- It will take 6-8 weeks for Leflunomide to work. Hence, keep taking the medicine.
- Get blood tests done every 4 weeks. This is to make sure that Leflunomide is not harming your liver or blood counts.
- Avoid alcohol when taking Leflunomide as it could harm your liver.
- Do not take it during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant while taking Leflunomide.
- Leflunomide may increase the risk of infection. Avoid being close to people with cold, flu or other contagious illnesses.
- Tell your doctor if you experience nausea or diarrhea.
Frequently asked questions for Leflunomide
Leflunomide
Q. I am a woman, what should I do if I am planning to become pregnant?
Talk to your doctor if you are planning to become pregnant while taking Leflunomide. You should never pregnant while taking Leflunomide because this medicine can harm your baby. Stop taking Leflunomide and call your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while taking Leflunomide.