Leflunomide
It is an isoxazole immunomodulatory agent which is effective in animal models of arthritis and other autoimmune diseases, allergy and transplantation. It has immunosuppressive characteristics, acts as an anti-proliferative agent, and displays weak anti-inflammatory propertiesTreatment of active rheumatoid arthritis.
Loading dose: 100mg once daily for 3 days. Maintenance dose : 20mg once daily
Hypersensitivity, severe immunodificiency states e.g. AIDS, impaired bone marrow function or significant anaemia, leukopenia or thrombocytopenia due to causes other than rheumatoid arthritis, severe, uncontrolled infections, impairment of liver function, pregnant women, women of childbearing potential, breast feeding, severe hypoproteinemia, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis or erythema multiforme.
Liver function monitoring. Not recommended for patients with severe immunodeficiency, bone marrow dysplasia, or severe uncontrolled infections because of the theoretical potential for immunosuppression. Not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years as its safety and efficacy have not been studied in this age group. Use in elderly.
Headache, dizziness, weakness, bronchitis, urinary tract infection, alopecia, rash, dry skin, eczema, pruritus, hypokalemia, weight loss, arthralgia back pain, joint disorder, leg cramps, pneumonia, respiratory infection, rhinitis, sinusitis, chest pain, hypertension, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, synovitis, tenosynovitis, paresthesia, allergic reactions, flu syndrome increased cough, pharyngitis, abnormal liver enzymes/hepatotoxicity, anorexia, dyspepsia, gastroenteritis, mouth ulcers, vomi
Store protected from heat, light and moisture at room temperature.
