Leflunomide – What It Is and Who Needs It

If you’ve been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis or another inflammatory joint disease, leflunomide might have popped up on your prescription list. It’s an oral medication that slows down the immune system to reduce swelling, pain, and joint damage. Unlike some injectables, you swallow a pill once a day, which many patients find convenient.

Doctors usually start adults at 20 mg daily after a short loading dose of 100 mg for three days. The goal is to reach steady blood levels that keep inflammation under control without causing too many side effects. If you’re new to leflunomide, expect a few weeks before you notice real improvement.

How Leflunomide Works

Leflunomide blocks an enzyme called dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH). This enzyme helps immune cells make DNA, so when it’s inhibited, the over‑active cells that attack your joints calm down. The result is less swelling and fewer flare‑ups.

Because it targets a specific pathway, leflunomide can be combined with other disease‑modifying drugs like methotrexate for extra joint protection. Your rheumatologist will decide if you need combination therapy based on how severe your symptoms are.

Safety Tips & Buying Online

Before you start, tell your doctor about any liver problems, pregnancy plans, or other meds you’re taking. Leflunomide can affect the liver, so routine blood tests are a must during the first few months. Common side effects include mild diarrhea, nausea, and hair thinning – they usually fade after a few weeks.

If you need to stop leflunomide quickly (for example, before surgery), your doctor may prescribe cholestyramine to clear the drug from your system faster. Never quit on your own; sudden withdrawal can trigger a flare‑up of arthritis.

When it comes to buying leflunomide online, stick to licensed pharmacies that require a valid prescription. Look for sites that display their pharmacy license number and have secure payment options. Avoid any “no prescription needed” offers – they’re often counterfeit and can be dangerous.

A good rule of thumb: if the price looks too low compared with other reputable stores, it probably is. Check customer reviews, confirm the site’s contact information, and make sure there’s a clear return or refund policy for damaged packages.

Once you receive your medication, store it at room temperature away from moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children. If you notice any unusual symptoms like severe rash, yellowing skin, or persistent fever, call your doctor right away.

Leflunomide isn’t a cure, but for many people it keeps joint pain at bay and helps preserve mobility. By following dosage guidelines, monitoring labs, and buying from trustworthy online pharmacies, you can make the most of this treatment while staying safe.