LEFNO 20

About

LEFNO 20 contains Leflunomide, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) primarily used in the treatment of active rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. It acts as an immunomodulatory agent by inhibiting dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), a key enzyme involved in the de novo pyrimidine synthesis pathway. This inhibition leads to a reduction in the proliferation of activated T-lymphocytes, which are central to the pathogenesis of autoimmune inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

By suppressing the immune response, Leflunomide helps to reduce inflammation, alleviate joint pain and swelling, and slow down the progression of joint damage and disability associated with these chronic autoimmune diseases. It is often considered for patients who have not responded adequately to other DMARDs. Due to its long half-life and potential for serious side effects, careful patient selection, monitoring, and adherence to safety guidelines are crucial during treatment.

Uses

• Treatment of active rheumatoid arthritis.
• Treatment of active psoriatic arthritis.
• Reduces signs and symptoms of arthritis.
• Slows the progression of structural joint damage.

Directions For Use

Take orally once daily, with or without food, as prescribed by your physician. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

Benefits

• Reduces joint inflammation and pain.
• Slows the progression of joint damage.
• Improves physical function and quality of life.
• Effective as monotherapy or in combination with other DMARDs.
• Long-lasting therapeutic effects.
• Oral administration for convenience.

Side Effects

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Rash
• Liver enzyme elevation
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Leukopenia (low white blood cell count)
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Weight loss
• Paresthesia (tingling/numbness)

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid or limit alcohol consumption due to an increased risk of liver toxicity when combined with Leflunomide.
• Pregnancy - Highly teratogenic and absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy. Women of childbearing potential must use strict contraception and undergo a washout procedure if pregnancy is desired.
• Breastfeeding - Not recommended. Leflunomide is excreted into breast milk and can cause serious adverse effects in the infant.
• Liver - Contraindicated in patients with severe liver impairment. Close monitoring of liver function tests is essential during treatment.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with severe renal impairment; dose adjustment may be necessary.
• Lung - Can cause interstitial lung disease, including rare but serious cases of pulmonary fibrosis. Monitor for new or worsening respiratory symptoms.

Disclaimer

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