Side effects of leflunomide

Usage

Leflunomide is a medication which is used in treatment for the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. It decreases the damage of the joints and it has a positive effect on the physical functioning. Leflunomide influences the immune system and decreases inflammation and swellings in the body. Pregnant women and mothers who are breastfeeding should not take Leflunomide because it can cause severe damage to the baby. Even if a woman is planning pregnancy, she should inform the doctor about it. Make sure you notify your doctor about any conditions and disorders, so the treatment and dose can be adjusted. These conditions include kidney disease, infection of any kind, liver disease, hepatitis, anemia, weakened immune system or problems with the bone marrow. Leflunomide should be taken exactly as your doctor prescribed because it is usually combined with other medications for arthritis.

Overdose and Allergic Reaction

If you overdose with Leflunomide you may experience pain in the stomach, diarrhea, bleedings, bruising, problems with urination and jaundice. Allergic reactions to Leflunomide are similar to those of any medication. Such reactions include skin irritation, rash, itchiness, breathing difficulties, tension in the chest, and swelling of the tongue, lips or face.

Side Effects

Every medication has certain side effects and so does Leflunomide. Some of the side effects which are not considered to be dangerous include diarrhea, appetite loss, headache, mild pain in the stomach, mild skin disorders such as rash and itchiness, tingling, numbness, loss of weight, pain in the back, faintness, nasal congestion, mild fever, coughing and sneezing. It is important to inform your doctor about any unusual changes so the dose of Leflunomide can be adjusted or the treatment changed. The most common side effects of Leflunomide are pain in the back, headache, diarrhea, skin dryness, loss of hair, infection of the urinary tract, infection of the upper respiratory tract, inflammation of the sinuses, bronchitis, pain in the joints and muscles, weakness, sickness, vomiting, appetite loss, coughing and loss of weight. Serious side effects of Leflunomide include pain in the chest, urination problems, fatigue, skin disorders such as peeling of the skin and blisters which can appear in the eyes, nose and mouth, bruising, bleedings, fever, various infections, breathing difficulties, cramps in the legs, numbness, skin paleness, sore throat, coughing, nausea, sever pain in the stomach and jaundice.

Classification of Side Effects

According to the parts of the body which may be affected by Leflunomide, side effect can be classified as gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, respiratory, dermatologic, genitourinary, metabolic, musculoskeletal, hematologic, endocrine, ocular, renal, oncologic and hepatic side effects. There are also side effects which involve the nervous system and hypersensitivity reactions.