Rumalef 20mg (Leflunomide 20mg) is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe active rheumatoid arthritis (RA), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), and psoriatic arthritis (PsA).
Indications:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): to reduce the signs and symptoms of RA, such as joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA): to reduce the signs and symptoms of JIA, such as joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
- Psoriatic arthritis (PsA): to reduce the signs and symptoms of PsA, such as joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Mechanism of Action:
Leflunomide works by inhibiting the production of dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, an enzyme necessary for the production of pyrimidines. This leads to the inhibition of DNA synthesis and cell proliferation, which reduces the inflammation and joint damage associated with these conditions.
Dosage and Administration:
The recommended dosage of Rumalef 20mg is 20mg once daily. The dose may be adjusted based on individual response and toxicity.
Side Effects:
Common side effects of Rumalef 20mg may include:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Rash
- Hair loss
- Increased liver enzymes (ALT/AST)
- Increased blood bilirubin
Precautions:
- Rumalef 20mg should not be used in patients with severe liver disease or active liver disease.
- Patients with a history of kidney disease should be monitored closely while taking Rumalef 20mg.
- Women of childbearing potential should use effective birth control while taking Rumalef 20mg.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take Rumalef 20mg.
Contraindications:
- Patients with severe liver disease or active liver disease.
- Patients with severe kidney disease.
- Patients with hypersensitivity to Leflunomide.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Important Note:
Rumalef 20mg is a prescription medication and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Patients should be monitored for signs of liver damage or kidney damage while taking Rumalef 20mg.
Comparison with other medications:
Rumalef 20mg is a selective inhibitor of dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, which is different from other DMARDs that work by inhibiting the production of folate or blocking the action of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). Leflunomide may have a slower onset of action compared to other DMARDs, but it may also have a lower risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
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