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Lefno 5mg Tablet
Last updated on 31 Mar 2026 | 09:29 AM (IST)
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Introduction to Lefno 5mg Tablet
Lefno 5mg Tablet is an antirheumatic medication that belongs to a class of drugs called disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) containing the active ingredient Leflunomide. It is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the joints. It is also used in the treatment of psoriatic arthritis, which is a type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs in some individuals with psoriasis. Psoriatic arthritis affects the joints and can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
Lefno 5mg Tablet is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to it or its components. Before taking Lefno 5mg Tablet, it is necessary to consult with your physician if you have a history of interstitial lung disease, tuberculosis, skin ulcers, unexplained chronic diarrhea, liver, and kidney problems. Your doctor may perform certain tests for further diagnosis and prescribe you a low dose if necessary. Certain vaccinations may not be recommended while on treatment with this drug because this drug can affect the immune system, and this can impact the effectiveness or safety of vaccines. This drug remains in the body for a considerable period even after discontinuation. Therefore, it's important to discuss vaccination plans with your doctor before initiating the treatment.
If you are currently experiencing a severe infection, it may be necessary to delay or avoid starting Lefno 5mg Tablet treatment until the infection is resolved. This drug is contraindicated during pregnancy because it can have harmful effects on a developing fetus and may also be present in breast milk. Drinking alcohol while taking this drug can further stress the liver and lead to liver toxicity or other complications. Hence, it is strongly advised to avoid consuming alcohol during the treatment.
Uses of Lefno 5mg Tablet
- Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
- Treatment of psoriatic arthritis
Therapeutic Effects of Lefno 5mg Tablet
Lefno 5mg Tablet works by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation. It inhibits the activity of certain immune cells called lymphocytes, which are involved in the inflammatory process.
Interaction of Lefno 5mg Tablet with other drugs
Inform your physician about all your medicines, including prescription, over-the-counter, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products. Certain medications such as duloxetine and warfarin may interact with Lefno 5mg Tablet and reduce effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects.
More Information about Lefno 5mg Tablet
- Store Lefno 5mg Tablet below (25°C).
- Protect from light and moisture.
How to consume Lefno 5mg Tablet
Take the Lefno 5mg Tablet as advised by your physician. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.
Safety Advice for Lefno 5mg Tablet
Breast Feeding
Taking Lefno 5mg Tablet while breastfeeding may be unsafe because it passes into breast milk and affects the child. Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine.
Alcohol
It is unsafe to consume alcohol during treatment with Lefno 5mg Tablet. It increases the risk of liver damage.
Liver
Inform your doctor if you have liver disease because the Lefno 5mg Tablet should be used cautiously with a liver condition.
Lungs
It is unknown whether Lefno 5mg Tablet is safe for patients with lung problems. Inform your physician if you have lung disease before starting the treatment.
Driving
Some side effects of Lefno 5mg tablets may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. It is unsafe to consume this drug.
Pregnancy
If you are pregnant, suspecting, or planning for the pregnancy, consult your doctor for more advice before taking Lefno 5mg Tablet.
Side Effects of Lefno 5mg Tablet
Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all drugs cause side effects, not everyone gets them.
Serious
- Serious allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, feeling dizzy or light-headed, weakness)
- Skin rash or ulcers in the mouth, bruising, pale skin
- Yellow discoloration of eyes and skin, abdominal pain
- Infections (fever, sore throat, cough)
- Tingling or pain in hands or feet
Common
- Loss of appetite, weight loss
- Low white blood cells
- Mild increase in blood pressure
- Diarrhea
- Nausea, vomiting
- Hair loss
- Dry skin, itching
Word of Advice
This medication aims to reduce joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. It may take several weeks or months to experience the full benefits of Lefno 5mg Tablet, so be patient and continue taking it as directed.
FAQs about Lefno 5mg Tablet
Q1.
Can Lefno 5mg Tablet cure rheumatoid arthritis?
Lefno 5mg Tablet is not a cure for rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune conditions. It is a long-term treatment that helps manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and slow down the progression of the disease.
Q2.
Can Lefno 5mg Tablet interact with other medications?
Yes, Lefno 5mg Tablet can interact with certain medications, including some immunosuppressants, such as methotrexate, and certain antimalarial drugs. It is important to inform your physician about all the medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to avoid serious interactions.
Q3.
How does Lefno 5mg Tablet work?
Lefno 5mg Tablet works by inhibiting an enzyme called dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), which is involved in the synthesis of DNA and RNA. By blocking this enzyme, this drug helps to reduce inflammation and suppress the overactive immune response associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Q4.
Can Lefno 5mg Tablet be used in children?
Lefno 5mg Tablet is generally not recommended for use in children and adolescents under the age of 18.
Q5.
What are the common side effects of Lefno 5mg Tablet?
Common side effects of Lefno 5mg Tablet may include loss of appetite, weight loss, low white blood cells, mild increase in blood pressure, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, dry skin, and itching. It is important to report any severe side effects to your physician.
Fact Box of Lefno 5mg Tablet
| Molecule name: Leflunomide | Therapeutic class: Antirheumatics |
| Pharmacological class: Pyrimidine synthesis inhibitor | Indications: 1. Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis 2. Treatment of psoriatic arthritis |
References
- Aspire Pharma Ltd, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on June 2022] [ Accessed on 17th August 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5399.pdf
- Sanofi-aventis US LLC, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on July 2011] [ Accessed on 17th August 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/020905s022lbl.pdf
- Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Immunosuppressants, tolerogens, and immunostimulants, 12th edition, 2011, 1014.
- KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Antirheumatoid and antigout drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 212.
Disclaimer
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Author Details
Written By
Dr. Vijayalakshmi N.
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Tejashwin Adiga
MBBS
Last updated : 31 Mar 2026 | 09:29 AM (IST)
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