Leflunomid

Leflunomide, the active ingredient in Leflunomid, is an immunomodulatory agent presented as an oral formulation for oral use. It is used to manage inflammatory joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis in adult patients. GNH USA supplies Leflunomid as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Leflunomid is a disease‑modifying antirheumatic drug that targets immune‑mediated joint inflammation. - Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint swelling, pain and structural damage. - Psoriatic arthritis: improves skin lesions and joint symptoms.

Leflunomid may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects: - Diarrhoea: loose stools occurring during early treatment. - Nausea: feeling of sickness or upset stomach. - Elevated liver enzymes: mild increases in ALT/AST levels. - Hypertension: rise in blood pressure requiring monitoring.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe liver injury: jaundice, abdominal pain, or marked enzyme elevation. - Bone marrow suppression: low blood counts leading to infection or anemia. - Pulmonary toxicity: cough, shortness of breath, or interstitial lung disease.

Leflunomid requires careful monitoring and specific safety measures. - Pregnancy: contraindicated; teratogenic risk mandates effective contraception. - Liver function: baseline and periodic testing recommended to detect hepatotoxicity. - Hematology: regular blood counts to identify bone‑marrow suppression. - Live vaccines: avoid during therapy due to impaired immune response. - Renal impairment: use with caution in severe renal dysfunction. - Store at below 25°C: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Leflunomid can alter the activity of several co‑administered medicines.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Warfarin: increased anticoagulant effect, risk of bleeding. - Cholesterol‑binding resins (e.g., cholestyramine): markedly reduce leflunomide exposure. - Strong CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine): raise leflunomide plasma levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Methotrexate: additive hepatotoxicity, monitor liver enzymes. - TNF‑α inhibitors: heightened infection risk, observe clinical signs. - Statins: possible increase in muscle toxicity, check CK levels.