More from Leflu
Other strengths and forms by Alco Pharma Limited
Indications & Uses
Leflu is indicated for:
Pharmacology
Leflunomide is an isoxazole immunomodulatory medicine. It works by blocking de novo pyrimidine synthesis, which slows the growth of cells. After you take it by mouth, the body breaks it down quickly into A771726. This compound is active in laboratory tests, and it is thought to be the form that does the work in the body. In animal models of autoimmune disease, leflunomide has shown both preventive and treatment effects. It has also shown anti-inflammatory action, along with weak pain-relieving and fever-reducing effects. In a model of experimental septicaemia, leflunomide did not change how well mice could resist bacterial infection.
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
Leflunomide is taken by mouth once a day for rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment usually starts with a loading dose of 100 mg once daily for the first 3 days, followed by a maintenance dose of 20 mg once daily. Unlike some medicines, leflunomide does not need to be increased gradually in steps. If tolerability problems occur, the dose may be lowered to 10 mg once daily.
Side Effects
Adverse effects reported with Nodia can include diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, along with headache and signs of respiratory infection or bronchitis. It may also raise liver enzyme levels, worsen existing hypertension, and cause hair loss (alopecia) or skin rash.
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
Caution is advised in women of child-bearing potential who are not using reliable contraception, as well as in those with kidney impairment. Nodia should be discontinued before attempting pregnancy. Liver function should be checked before starting treatment.
Contraindications
Leflunomide should not be used by anyone who is hypersensitive to it or to any of its ingredients. It is also contraindicated in people with liver impairment, severe uncontrolled infections, or bone marrow dysplasia.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Leflunomide is not recommended for women who are pregnant. Pregnancy must be avoided both during treatment with leflunomide and for some time afterward, until the drug elimination procedure has been completed following treatment. Leflunomide should also not be used by breastfeeding mothers. It is not known whether the drug passes into human breast milk, but since many medicines do, and since leflunomide could potentially cause serious harm to a nursing infant, the decision to continue breastfeeding or to start leflunomide treatment should weigh how important the medicine is to the mother's health.
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Overdose
No human experience with a Leflunomide overdose has been recorded. If a significant overdose or toxicity does occur, cholestyramine or charcoal is recommended to speed up elimination of the medicine from the body.
⚠️ In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Storage
Store Leflunomide below 30°C, and keep it away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Drug Interactions
Common questions about Leflu 20 mg
What is Leflu 20 mg Tablet?
Leflu 20 mg Tablet is a medicine that contains Leflunomide. It is made by Alco Pharma Limited. It belongs to the Drugs used for Rheumatoid Arthritis group of medicines.
What is Leflu used for?
Leflu is used for: Rheumatoid Arthritis.
What are the side effects of Leflu?
Adverse effects reported with Nodia can include diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, along with headache and signs of respiratory infection or bronchitis. It may also raise liver enzyme levels, worsen existing hypertension, and cause hair loss (alopecia) or skin rash.
Can I take Leflu during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Leflunomide is not recommended for women who are pregnant. Pregnancy must be avoided both during treatment with leflunomide and for some time afterward, until the drug elimination procedure has been completed following treatment. Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
What happens if I take too much Leflu?
No human experience with a Leflunomide overdose has been recorded. If a significant overdose or toxicity does occur, cholestyramine or charcoal is recommended to speed up elimination of the medicine from the body. In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
How should I store Leflu?
Store Leflunomide below 30°C, and keep it away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Can I take other medicines with Leflu?
Some medicines can interact with Leflunomide, for example: Rifampicin, Activated Charcoal, Methotrexate, Cholestyramine. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take.
Do I need a prescription for Leflu?
Leflu is a prescription (Rx) medicine. Take it as your doctor advises.