Product image of Leflunomide Ratiopharm (Leflunomide) supplied by GNH India

Leflunomide Ratiopharm

Active Ingredient:
Leflunomide
Origin:
EU

Leflunomide Ratiopharm (Leflunomide)

Leflunomide, the active ingredient in Leflunomide Ratiopharm, is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) presented as a tablet for oral use. It treats rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis in adult patients.

GNH India supplies Leflunomide Ratiopharm as a licensed, GDP-compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Manufacturer / TM Owner

Ratiopharm Gmbh

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Indications & Clinical Uses

  • Leflunomide is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug that targets inflammatory joint diseases.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint inflammation and slows structural damage.
  • Psoriatic arthritis: improves skin lesions and joint symptoms.
  • Adults with active disease unresponsive to conventional therapy: helps achieve disease control.

How It Works

  • Leflunomide inhibits the mitochondrial enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, which blocks de novo pyrimidine synthesis. This limits the proliferation of activated lymphocytes, thereby reducing the immune‑mediated inflammation that drives rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis.

Side Effects

Leflunomide may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to serious.

Common Side Effects

  • Diarrhea: loose stools or increased frequency.
  • Nausea: feeling of sickness.
  • Hair loss: thinning or shedding of hair.
  • Elevated liver enzymes: increased ALT/AST levels.
  • Rash: mild skin irritation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

  • Severe liver injury: jaundice, fatigue, dark urine.
  • Aplastic anemia: low blood cell counts causing fatigue and infection risk.
  • Pulmonary toxicity: cough, shortness of breath.
  • Severe skin reactions: Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.

Precautions & Warnings

  • Before initiating Leflunomide, consider the following precautions to ensure safe use.
  • Pregnancy: contraindicated; avoid use in women of childbearing potential.
  • Liver function: assess baseline enzymes and monitor regularly.
  • Infection risk: screen for active infections before treatment.
  • Blood counts: monitor complete blood count periodically.
  • Vaccinations: avoid live vaccines during therapy.
  • Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C, in original packaging, protect from moisture.

Avoid Interactions

Leflunomide can interact with several medicines, affecting efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

  • Teriflunomide: additive immunosuppression, avoid combined use.
  • Methotrexate: increased risk of hepatotoxicity.
  • Cyclosporine: heightened liver toxicity.
  • Anticoagulants (warfarin): may enhance anticoagulant effect.
  • Live vaccines: risk of infection, avoid.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

  • Statins: possible increased risk of myopathy.
  • Rifampin: reduces leflunomide plasma levels.
  • Oral contraceptives: may decrease effectiveness.
  • NSAIDs: may increase liver enzyme elevations.
  • CYP2C9 inhibitors: may raise leflunomide exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Leflunomide Ratiopharm is prescribed for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis in adult patients. It helps reduce joint inflammation, slows disease progression, and can improve skin and joint symptoms associated with these autoimmune conditions.

Leflunomide blocks the enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, which is essential for de novo pyrimidine synthesis. By limiting pyrimidine production, the drug reduces the proliferation of activated lymphocytes, thereby decreasing the immune‑driven inflammation that characterises rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis.

The dosage of Leflunomide Ratiopharm is determined by the prescribing physician based on the patient’s clinical condition, disease severity, and response to therapy. The prescriber will establish the appropriate dose and any necessary adjustments.

Leflunomide is classified as pregnancy category X, meaning it is contraindicated in pregnancy because of a high risk of fetal harm. It should not be used by breastfeeding mothers, as it may be excreted in breast milk and affect the infant.

To place an order, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnhindia.com, specifying the required quantity. GNH India supplies hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, verifies trade or institutional credentials, and then provides pricing, availability, shipping details and any necessary import documentation.

Both leflunomide and methotrexate are DMARDs used for rheumatoid arthritis, but they have different mechanisms. Leflunomide inhibits pyrimidine synthesis, while methotrexate interferes with folate metabolism. Choice between them depends on patient tolerance, liver function, and physician assessment of efficacy and safety.

Store the tablets at ambient temperature, preferably below 25 °C. Keep them in the original packaging to protect from moisture and light. Do not store in the bathroom or near heat sources, and keep out of reach of children.

Leflunomide Ratiopharm is taken orally as a tablet, usually with or without food as directed by the prescriber. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew unless specifically instructed.

The most serious risks include severe liver injury, aplastic anemia, pulmonary toxicity, and life‑threatening skin reactions such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome. Patients should be monitored regularly for liver function, blood counts, and any signs of respiratory or dermatologic complications.

Leflunomide should not be used by pregnant women, women planning pregnancy, or those who are not using effective contraception. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe liver impairment, active infections, or known hypersensitivity to the drug.

Published by

GNH India Pharmaceuticals Limited

Licensed pharmaceutical supplier

Last updated:

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