What is leflunomide 20 mg used for?
This medication is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, a condition in which the body’s defense system (immune system) fails to recognize the body as itself and attacks the healthy tissues around the joints. Leflunomide helps to reduce the joint damage/pain/swelling and helps you to move better.
Is leflunomide better than methotrexate?
Compared with methotrexate, leflunomide was not significantly more effective on most outcome measures. There was no difference in the number of tender or swollen joints, pain scores, or work productivity.
What is leflunomide 10 mg used for?
Leflunomide is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat rheumatoid arthritis (a condition in which the body attacks its own joints, causing pain, swelling, and loss of function). Leflunomide is in a class of medications called disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
What class of drug is leflunomide?
Leflunomide is a pyrimidine synthesis inhibitor belonging to the disease-modifying anti-rheumatic class of drugs (DMARD) used to treat symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Leflunomide also helps reduce joint damage and improves physical functioning.
How long can I take leflunomide?
However, keep in mind, if you were gaining any benefit from leflunomide, it will usually take at least 6 weeks to lose it. If you are stopping because of more severe side effects, your doctor may recommend a medication regimen to clear the leflunomide out of your system, as it can otherwise remain in you for 1-2 years.
Why is leflunomide a hazardous drug?
Leflunomide therapy is associated with frequent elevations in serum aminotransferase levels and with rare instances of clinically apparent acute liver injury which can be severe and even fatal.
Does leflunomide affect sleep?
Leflunomide oral tablet does not cause drowsiness, but it can cause other side effects.