Stopping Leflunomide

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Rheumatologist, talks about the steps a patient should take when deciding to stop taking Leflunomide. Always talk to your Rheumatologist about any questions

Rheumatologist, talks about the steps a patient should take when deciding to stop taking Leflunomide. Always talk to your Rheumatologist about any questions

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Video transcript

Featuring Dr. John Wade, MD, FRCPC, Rheumatologist

Duration: 44 seconds

If you’re going to stop leflunomide, you should speak to your specialist first. If you’re going to consider stopping it, you might think about reducing the dose, and taking half the dose.

If you want to stop it, you’ve got to realize leflunomide is in the body for months or potentially even years. So if you’re going to stop the medication, it is going to be an effect that goes on for a period of time after stopping it.

If you’re concerned about any side effects, you should stop the medication and contact your healthcare provider or your specialist straightaway. If you have any questions or concerns about leflunomide, contact your healthcare provider or your specialist.

https://dr-john-wade.com/

Presenter: Dr. John Wade, Rheumatologist, Vancouver, BC

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Stopping Leflunomide ( 154 participated.)

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Questions
 
True
False
1

If you stop leflunomide, you may experience withdrawal symptoms.

Explanation:

Stopping leflunomide usually doesn’t cause any withdrawal symptoms. However, you still need to work with your healthcare professional to safely stop the drug.

2

Leflunomide is used to treat a variety of diseases, not just arthritis.

Explanation:

Leflunomide is a disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) that is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.

3

Leflunomide can remain in the body for up to two years.

Explanation:

Leflunomide can remain in the body for up to two years. If a patient is stopping leflunomide because of severe side effects, their doctor may recommend a “washout” treatment. This involves using a medication to clear the leflunomide out of your system.

4

You don’t have to stop leflunomide if you plan on becoming pregnant.

Explanation:

You should not become pregnant if you are on leflunomide. It can increase your risk of malformations or miscarriage.

5

Diarrhea is a common side effect of leflunomide.

Explanation:

The more common side effects of leflunomide include diarrhea, nausea, rash, headaches and abnormal liver tests.

This content is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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