Leflunomide - Dosage and How to Use
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Leflunomide

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Leflunomide - Dosage and How to Use

How should Leflunomide be used?

    How is the medicine given?

  • It is given orally, after food, usually once-a-day.
  • A typical dose will range from 10mg to 20mg daily.
  • When first started on leflunomide, doctors may prescribe a "loading dose" to quickly build up the drug in the body and speed up the onset of the drug.
    • The loading dose is usually 100mg a day for the first 3 days.
    • Alternatively, 100mg given once weekly for 3 weeks while taking the regular daily dose may be prescribed.
    • The loading dose increases the chances of experiencing diarrhea, but this side effect usually improves after completing the loading dose.
    • Omission if loading dose is acceptable with the knowledge that there may be a slight delay in response time.
  • The dose will vary for each person depending upon factors such as activities of your disease and your response to the treatment.

    What is the TIME to EFFECT?

  • Improvement is usually first seen in 3-4 weeks. The full benefits of this drug may not be seen until after 12 weeks of treatment.

  • You need to take it continuously to keep your symptoms controlled.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

  • If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
  • If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose an continue with your regular dosing schedule.
  • Do not double the dose to make up for the missed dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

  • Updated on 6/12/2015 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Pharmacy, Rheumatology & Immunology Singapore General Hospital
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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