Pharmacology - Leflunomide

​Pharmacology - Leflunomide 
An inhibitory activity on activated T cells is responsible for the modification of the immune response that is the root cause of rheumatoid arthritis.

The mechanism of action involves the formation of a metabolite that leads to the inhibition of dihydrooratate dehydrogenase. This, in turn, leads to the inhibition of T-cell proliferation and a reduction in the production of autoantibodies by B cells.

Orally absorbed by the body. The metabolite is subjected to enterohepatic cycling, with a half-life period of approximately 18 days.

Use in clinical settings 
Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition. The combination of methotrexate and this medication is particularly effective.

Adverse Effects 
Two-fifths of patients experience diarrhea. There is a possibility of increased blood pressure and weight gain. It is possible for the long half-life to result in cumulative toxicity.