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Immulef 20mg Tablet

Salt Composition: LEFLUNOMIDE

₹155.00₹181.88

Inclusive of all taxes

Categories: Gastroenterology

Conditions: Arthritis

Product Introduction

Immulef 20mg Tablet is an antirheumatic medication belonging to the class of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). It contains leflunomide as its active ingredient and is indicated for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the joints. The medication is also used to treat psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory arthritis that develops in some patients with psoriasis. Psoriatic arthritis affects the joints and may cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.

Immulef 20mg Tablet is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity or allergy to leflunomide or any component of the formulation. Prior to initiating treatment with Immulef 20mg Tablet, inform your physician if you have a history of interstitial lung disease, tuberculosis, skin ulcers, unexplained chronic diarrhoea, or hepatic or renal dysfunction. Your doctor may conduct certain investigations for further assessment and may prescribe a reduced dose if clinically indicated.

Certain vaccinations may not be advisable during treatment with this medication, as it can affect immune system function and may impact vaccine efficacy or safety. This drug persists in the body for a considerable duration following discontinuation. It is therefore important to discuss vaccination plans with your physician prior to commencing treatment. If you are currently managing a severe infection, it may be necessary to defer or avoid initiating Immulef 20mg Tablet treatment until the infection has resolved.

This medication is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential harmful effects on fetal development and may be present in breast milk. Concurrent alcohol consumption while taking this drug can increase hepatic stress and may result in liver toxicity or other adverse effects. Alcohol consumption is therefore strongly advised against during the treatment period.

Uses

Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis Treatment of psoriatic arthritis

How it works

Immulef 20mg Tablet works by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation. It inhibits the activity of certain immune cells called lymphocytes, which are involved in the inflammatory process.

How to Use

Take the Immulef 20mg Tablet as advised by your physician. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.

Side Effects

Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all drugs cause side effects, not everyone gets them. Serious Serious allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, feeling dizzy or light-headed, weakness) Skin rash or ulcers in the mouth, bruising, pale skin Yellow discoloration of eyes and skin, abdominal pain Infections (fever, sore throat, cough) Tingling or pain in hands or feet Common Loss of appetite, weight loss Low white blood cells Mild increase in blood pressure Diarrhea Nausea, vomiting Hair loss Dry skin, itching

Expert Tips

This medication aims to reduce joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. It may take several weeks or months to experience the full benefits of Immulef 20mg Tablet, so be patient and continue taking it as directed.

References

  1. Aspire Pharma Ltd, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on June 2022] [ Accessed on 17th August 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5399.pdf
  2. Sanofi-aventis US LLC, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on July 2011] [ Accessed on 17th August 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/020905s022lbl.pdf
  3. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Immunosuppressants, tolerogens, and immunostimulants, 12th edition, 2011, 1014.
  4. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Antirheumatoid and antigout drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 212.

Safety Advice

Pregnancy: Consult your doctor If you are pregnant, suspecting, or planning for the pregnancy, consult your doctor for more advice before taking Immulef 20mg Tablet.

Lungs: Consult your doctor It is unknown whether Immulef 20mg Tablet is safe for patients with lung problems. Inform your physician if you have lung disease before starting the treatment.

Breastfeeding: unsafe Taking Immulef 20mg Tablet while breastfeeding may be unsafe because it passes into breast milk and affects the child. Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Self-medication can be harmful. Med For Rare does not endorse self-diagnosis or self-treatment.

Written By: Muskan Patel, M.Pharm

Reviewed By: Dr. Vishwa Patel, MBBS