Leflunomid Stada (Leflunomide)

Leflunomid Stada is a disease‑modifying antirheumatic drug that targets inflammatory pathways in autoimmune joint disorders.

• Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint inflammation, pain and structural damage.
• Psoriatic arthritis: improves skin lesions and joint symptoms, slowing disease progression.

• Leflunomide inhibits the mitochondrial enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, which blocks de novo pyrimidine synthesis. This limits the proliferation of activated lymphocytes and reduces the production of inflammatory cytokines, thereby modulating the immune response in autoimmune conditions.

Leflunomid Stada may cause a range of adverse reactions that vary in frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Diarrhea: mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset.
• Nausea: occasional feeling of queasiness.
• Alopecia: reversible hair thinning.
• Rash: skin irritation or erythema.
• Elevated liver enzymes: mild transaminase rise.
• Hypertension: increase in blood pressure readings.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe liver injury: potential hepatic failure requiring monitoring.
• Bone marrow suppression: pancytopenia or anemia.
• Pulmonary toxicity: interstitial lung disease or pneumonitis.
• Severe infections: opportunistic bacterial or viral infections.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: severe skin and mucosal reactions.
• Teratogenicity: fetal malformations if exposure occurs during pregnancy.

Before initiating therapy with Leflunomid Stada, several safety considerations should be observed.

• Pregnancy contraindication: avoid use in women who are pregnant or may become pregnant.
• Liver monitoring: perform baseline and periodic liver function tests.
• Hematologic monitoring: check complete blood count regularly.
• Live vaccines: avoid administration while on therapy due to immunosuppression.
• Severe hepatic impairment: contraindicated in patients with existing liver disease.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and heat.

Leflunomid Stada can interact with other medicines, altering efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Warfarin: increased anticoagulant effect, risk of bleeding.
• Teriflunomide: additive toxicity, especially hepatic.
• Live vaccines: heightened risk of infection.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Statins: possible increase in muscle toxicity.
• Antihypertensives: may enhance blood pressure lowering.
• Oral contraceptives: reduced hormonal efficacy, consider alternative contraception.