Leflunomide Sandoz

Leflunomide, the active ingredient in Leflunomide Sandoz, is an immunomodulatory agent (DMARD) presented as a tablet for oral use. It treats rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis in adult patients. GNH USA supplies Leflunomide Sandoz as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Leflunomide is a disease‑modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used in inflammatory arthritis.

- Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint inflammation and slows structural damage. - Psoriatic arthritis: improves skin lesions and joint symptoms.

Leflunomide may cause a range of adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects: - Diarrhoea: mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset. - Nausea: occasional feeling of queasiness. - Alopecia: reversible hair thinning. - Elevated liver enzymes: mild transaminase rise.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe liver injury: hepatitis or hepatic failure. - Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. - Bone marrow suppression: neutropenia or anemia. - Interstitial lung disease: respiratory symptoms and imaging changes. - Teratogenicity: fetal malformations when exposure occurs in pregnancy. - Severe infections: opportunistic infections due to immunosuppression.

Before initiating therapy, several safety considerations are required.

- Pregnancy: contraindicated (Category X); avoid in women of child‑bearing potential. - Liver function: obtain baseline tests and monitor periodically. - Blood pressure: monitor for hypertension, especially in patients with pre‑existing disease. - Infections: screen for latent tuberculosis and active infections. - Hematology: perform regular complete blood counts. - Store at below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Leflunomide can interact with several medicines, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Teriflunomide (active metabolite) co‑administration: risk of additive toxicity. - Strong CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine): increase leflunomide plasma levels. - Warfarin: enhanced anticoagulant effect, leading to elevated INR.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Statins (e.g., simvastatin): possible increased risk of myopathy. - Oral contraceptives: reduced hormonal efficacy, increasing pregnancy risk. - NSAIDs: potential additive liver toxicity.