Leflunomide Side Effects

When dealing with leflunomide, an oral disease‑modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used mainly for rheumatoid arthritis. Also known as Arava, it works by inhibiting pyrimidine synthesis, which slows down immune‑cell proliferation. Because of this mechanism, leflunomide can trigger a range of unwanted reactions. One close relative, teriflunomide, is actually the active metabolite that remains in the body for weeks after stopping the drug, and it shares many of the same side‑effect patterns. Understanding that leflunomide treats rheumatoid arthritis while also carrying risks like liver toxicity, hypertension, and hair loss helps you weigh benefits against potential harm.

Key related factors you should know

Another core entity in this conversation is rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic autoimmune condition that leflunomide aims to control. When you combine the disease context with the drug, a clear semantic link emerges: leflunomide reduces joint inflammation, but its immunosuppressive action can also open the door to infections. Drug interactions play a huge role—co‑administered medicines that affect liver enzymes (like azathioprine or certain antibiotics) can raise leflunomide levels and intensify side effects. Liver toxicity is the most closely monitored adverse event; regular ALT and AST tests are recommended because early detection prevents severe damage. Hair loss, dizziness, and gastrointestinal upset are also reported, each linked to the drug’s impact on rapidly dividing cells. By recognizing that dose adjustments, timing of lab checks, and awareness of interacting agents can mitigate these issues, you get a practical roadmap for safer treatment.

What you’ll find in the collection below is a curated set of articles that dive deep into each of these topics. One piece explains how to interpret liver‑function test results and when to pause therapy. Another walks you through strategies to manage hair loss, from nutritional support to dose tapering. A third article maps out common drug‑interaction culprits and offers a checklist for clinicians and patients alike. Together they form a comprehensive resource that lets you understand the full scope of leflunomide side effects, anticipate problems before they arise, and act confidently if they do. Browse the posts to arm yourself with evidence‑based tips, real‑world dosing advice, and actionable steps for monitoring your health while staying on therapy.