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  3. LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's

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LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's, Pack of 10 TabletS
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Written By Santoshini Reddy G , M Pharmacy
Reviewed By Dr Aneela Siddabathuni , MPharma., PhD
LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's is used to relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. It contains Leflunomide, which suppresses the activated immune system to reduce pain, inflammation and swelling. In some cases, LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's may cause common side effects such as diarrhoea, nausea, stomach pain, indigestion, rash, and hair loss. Before taking this medicine, you should tell your doctor if you are allergic to any of its components or if you are pregnant/breastfeeding, and about all the medications you are taking and pre-existing medical conditions.
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Composition :

LEFLUNOMIDE-20MG

Manufacturer/Marketer :

Meddox Formulations

Consume Type :

ORAL

Return Policy :

Not Returnable

Expires on or after :

About LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's

LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's is used to relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune disease (the body's immune system attacks its tissue) which leads to joint pain and damage. Psoriatic arthritis is a kind of inflammatory arthritis which occurs in patients with psoriasis (red patches of skin with silvery scales). 

LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's contains 'Leflunomide' an isoxazole immunomodulatory agent which works by blocking the formation of genetic material, i.e. DNA required for survival of replicating (dividing) cells of the immune system. As a result, it suppresses the activated immune system to reduce pain, inflammation and swelling. 

Take LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's at the same time every day as prescribed by your doctor. In some cases, LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's may cause common side effects such as diarrhoea, nausea, stomach pain, indigestion, rash, and hair loss. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.

Do not take LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's if you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy, as LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's may cause serious congenital disabilities. LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's should not be taken by breastfeeding mothers as it passes into breast milk. LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's may cause dizziness, so drive with caution. Avoid consuming alcohol along with LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's as it could lead to increased dizziness and liver damage. LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's may make you more susceptible to infections; consult your doctor if you develop any signs of infections such as fever, sore throat, breathlessness, jaundice, unexplained bleeding or bruising.

Uses of LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's

Treatment of Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriatic arthritis

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Directions for Use

• Take LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's with or without food as advised by your doctor. • It is usually taken once daily; however, follow your doctor’s recommendation regarding the dosage and duration. • Swallow LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's as a whole with a glass of water. • Do not crush, chew or break it.

Medicinal Benefits

LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's belongs to the group of medicines called anti-rheumatic agents used to relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARDs) which inhibits an enzyme called dihydroorotate dehydrogenase and has antiproliferative activity (suppresses the cell growth). Thereby, helps in treating inflammation, redness, and swelling.

How LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's Works

LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's contains 'Leflunomide' an isoxazole immunomodulatory agent which works by blocking the formation of genetic material, i.e. DNA required for survival of replicating (dividing) cells of the immune system. As a result, it suppresses the activated immune system to reduce pain, inflammation and swelling.

Storage

Keep LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's out of reach and sight of children.
Side effects of LEF 20 mg Tablet
Here are the precise steps to cope with diarrhoea caused by medication usage:
  • Inform Your Doctor: Notify your doctor immediately about your diarrhoea symptoms. This allows them to adjust your medication or provide guidance on managing side effects.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to replace lost water and electrolytes. Choose water, clear broth, and electrolyte-rich drinks. Avoid carbonated or caffeinated beverages to effectively rehydrate your body.
  • Follow a Bland Diet: Eat easy-to-digest foods to help firm up your stool and settle your stomach. Try incorporating bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, plain crackers, and boiled vegetables into your diet.
  • Avoid Trigger Foods: Steer clear of foods that can worsen diarrhoea, such as spicy, fatty, or greasy foods, high-fibre foods, and dairy products (especially if you're lactose intolerant).
  • Practice Good Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene to prevent the spread of infection. To stay healthy, wash your hands frequently, clean and disinfect surfaces regularly, and avoid exchanging personal belongings with others.
  • Take Anti-Diarrheal Medications: If your doctor advises, anti-diarrheal medications such as loperamide might help manage diarrhoea symptoms. Always follow your doctor's directions.
  • Keep track of your diarrhoea symptoms. If they don't get better or worse or are accompanied by severe stomach pain, blood, or dehydration signs (like extreme thirst or dark urine), seek medical help.
Here are the step-by-step strategies to manage the side effects of "indigestion" caused by medication usage:
  • Take medications with food (if recommended): It can help prevent stomach distress and indigestion.
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Divide daily food intake into smaller, more frequent meals to ease digestion.
  • Avoid trigger foods: Identify and avoid foods that trigger indigestion, such as spicy, fatty, or acidic foods.
  • Stay upright after eating: Sit or stand upright for at least 1-2 hours after eating to prevent stomach acid from flowing into the oesophagus.
  • Avoid carbonated drinks: Avoid drinking carbonated beverages, such as soda or beer, which can worsen indigestion.
  • Manage stress: To alleviate indigestion, engage in stress-reducing activities like deep breathing exercises or meditation.
  • Consult a doctor if needed: If indigestion worsens or persists, consult a healthcare professional to adjust the medication regimen or explore alternative treatments.
  • Eat protein-rich foods like fish, poultry, eggs, and legumes.
  • Include foods with minerals and vitamins essential for hair health.
  • Join a support group to connect with others experiencing hair loss.
  • Openly discuss your feelings about hair loss.
  • Consider covering up with wigs, hats, or scarves.
  • Be patient and avoid seeking miracle cures.
Dealing with Medication-Induced Headache:
  • Hydrate your body: Drink enough water to prevent dehydration and headaches.
  • Calm Your Mind: Deep breathing and meditation can help you relax and relieve stress.
  • Rest and Recharge: Sleep for 7-8 hours to reduce headache triggers.
  • Take rest: lie down in a quiet, dark environment.
  • Cold or warm compresses can help reduce tension.
  • Stay Upright: Maintain good posture to keep symptoms from getting worse.
  • To treat headaches naturally, try acupuncture or massage therapy.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers include acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
  • Prescription Assistance: Speak with your doctor about more substantial drug alternatives.
  • Severe Headaches: Seek emergency medical assistance for sudden, severe headaches.
  • Frequent Headaches: If you get reoccurring headaches, consult your doctor.
  • Headaches with Symptoms: Seek medical attention if your headaches include fever, disorientation, or weakness.
  • Skin rash caused by allergies is due to irritants or allergens. Therefore, avoid contact with such irritants.
  • Consult your doctor for proper medication and apply an anti-itch medication. Follow the schedule and use the medication whenever needed.
  • Protect your skin from extreme heat and try to apply wet compresses.
  • Soak in the cool bath, which gives a soothing impact to the affected area.
Managing Medication-Triggered Bronchitis (Inflammation of the bronchial tubes): A Step-by-Step Guide:
  • If you experience symptoms like coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing after taking medication, seek medical attention immediately.
  • Your healthcare provider will work with you to stop the medication causing the reaction, start alternative treatments, and provide supportive therapy.
  • To manage symptoms and prevent complications, follow your doctor's advice to use inhalers or nebulizers as prescribed, practice good hygiene, avoid irritants, stay hydrated, and get plenty of rest.
  • Regularly track your symptoms and report any changes or concerns to your healthcare provider.

What if I have taken an overdose of LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's

Do not take more than the prescribed dose of LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's as it may cause overdose. The symptoms of overdose include weakness, stomach pain, diarrhoea, pale skin, extreme tiredness, shortness of breath and fast heartbeat. If you suspect you have taken overdose or notice signs of overdose, please consult a doctor immediately.

Drug Warnings

Do not take LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's if you are allergic to leflunomide, have severe liverkidney problems, low levels of protein in the blood, immune system problems, bone marrow problems, or serious infections. LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's is not recommended to be used in pregnant women, lactating mothers and people below 18 years of age. Talk to your doctor before taking LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's if you have/had serious infections like interstitial lung disease (inflammation of lungs), tuberculosis (TB), or pneumonia. LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's may cause dizziness, so drive with caution. LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's may make you more susceptible to infections; notify the doctor if you develop infections, sore throat, breathlessness, jaundice, unexplained bleeding or bruising.

Drug-Drug Interactions

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LeflunomideCapecitabine
Severe
LeflunomideDeflazacort
Severe

Drug-Drug Interactions

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LeflunomideCapecitabine
Severe
How does the drug interact with LEF 20 mg Tablet:
Co-administration of LEF 20 mg Tablet with Capecitabine may increase the risk of serious infections.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is an interaction, capecitabine can be taken with LEF 20 mg Tablet if prescribed by the doctor. Consult the prescriber if you develop signs and symptoms of infection such as fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, blood in phlegm, weight loss, red or inflamed skin, body sores, and pain or burning sensation during urination. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting a doctor.
LeflunomideDeflazacort
Severe
How does the drug interact with LEF 20 mg Tablet:
Co-administration of Deflazacort with LEF 20 mg Tablet may increase the risk of serious infections.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is a possible interaction between Deflazacort and LEF 20 mg Tablet, you can take these medicines together if prescribed by your doctor. If you have any of the symptoms like fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, weight loss, and pain or burning when you urinate, consult a doctor immediately. Do not stop using any medications without a doctor's advice.
LeflunomideBelatacept
Severe
How does the drug interact with LEF 20 mg Tablet:
Taking belatacept with LEF 20 mg Tablet can increase the risk and severity of serious infections.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is an interaction between LEF 20 mg Tablet and belatacept, they can be taken together if prescribed by a doctor. However, consult a doctor if you experience fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, weight loss, red or inflamed skin, body sores, and pain or burning during urination. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
LeflunomideCorticorelin
Severe
How does the drug interact with LEF 20 mg Tablet:
Using LEF 20 mg Tablet together with Corticorelin may raise the risk of severe infections.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking LEF 20 mg Tablet with Corticorelin together can possibly result in an interaction, but it can be taken if your doctor has advised it. If you experience symptoms like fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, difficulty breathing, weight loss, or pain while urinating, contact your doctor immediately. Do not stop using any medications without a doctor's advice.
LeflunomideMefenamic acid
Severe
How does the drug interact with LEF 20 mg Tablet:
Coadministration of Mefenamic acid with LEF 20 mg Tablet can increase the risk or severity of liver disease.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Mefenamic acid with LEF 20 mg Tablet together can result in an interaction, it can be taken if your doctor has advised it. However, if you notice any symptoms of fever, chills, joint pain or swelling, unusual bleeding or bruising, skin rash, itching, loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dark-colored urine, light-colored stools, and/or yellowing of the skin or eyes, you should contact a doctor immediately. Do not stop using any medications without talking to a doctor.
LeflunomideTriamcinolone
Severe
How does the drug interact with LEF 20 mg Tablet:
Taking triamcinolone with LEF 20 mg Tablet can increase the risk of infection.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is an interaction between LEF 20 mg Tablet and Triamcinolone, they can be taken together if prescribed by a doctor. However, consult a doctor if you experience fatigue, dizziness, lightheadedness, unusual bleeding or bruising, fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, weight loss, red or inflamed skin, body sores, pain or burning during urination. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
LeflunomideIdarubicin
Severe
How does the drug interact with LEF 20 mg Tablet:
Taking Idarubicin and LEF 20 mg Tablet can increase the risk of developing serious infections.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is an interaction, Idarubicin can be taken with LEF 20 mg Tablet, if prescribed by the doctor. However, if you experience fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, breathing difficulty, blood in your coughing fluid, weight loss, red or irritated skin, body sores, and discomfort or burning when you urinate, consult a doctor. Do not discontinue any medications without a doctor's advice.
LeflunomideLevofloxacin
Severe
How does the drug interact with LEF 20 mg Tablet:
Coadministration of Levofloxacin and LEF 20 mg Tablet can increase the risk of liver issues.

How to manage the interaction:
Although concomitant administration of levofloxacin alongside LEF 20 mg Tablet can result in an interaction, it can be taken if a doctor has advised it. However, if you have a fever, chills, joint pain or swelling, unusual bleeding or bruising, skin rash, itching, loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark-colored urine, light-colored stools, and/or yellowing of the skin or eyes, contact the doctor right away. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
LeflunomidePrednisolone
Severe
How does the drug interact with LEF 20 mg Tablet:
Co-administration of LEF 20 mg Tablet with Prednisolone may raise the risk of serious infection.

How to manage the interaction:
Although taking LEF 20 mg Tablet and Prednisolone together can result in an interaction, it can be taken if a doctor has prescribed it. However, if you experience fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscular pains, shortness of breath, blood in the coughing fluid, weight loss, red or irritated skin, body sores, or discomfort or burning when urinating, consult a doctor immediately. Do not stop using any medications without a doctor's advice.
LeflunomideBaricitinib
Severe
How does the drug interact with LEF 20 mg Tablet:
Coadministration of baricitinib and LEF 20 mg Tablet can raise the risk of infections.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is an interaction, baricitinib can be taken with LEF 20 mg Tablet if prescribed by the doctor. However, if you experience fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, blood in your coughing fluid, weight loss, red or irritated skin, body sores, and discomfort or burning when you urinate, consult a doctor. Do not stop using any medications without talking to a doctor.

Drug-Food Interactions

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No Drug - Food interactions found in our database. Some may be unknown. Consult your doctor for what to avoid during medication.

Drug-Food Interactions

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Diet & Lifestyle Advise

  • Physical activity helps in strengthening muscles and relieves joint stiffness. Gentle activities like 20-30minutes of walking or swimming would be helpful.

  • Performing yoga may also help in improving joint flexibility and pain management.

  • Maintain a healthy weight by performing regular low-strain exercises and eating healthy food.

  • Get adequate sleep as resting the muscles can help in reducing inflammation and swelling.

  • De-stress yourself by meditating, reading books, taking a warm bubble bath or listening to soothing music.

  • Acupuncture, massage and physical therapy may also be helpful.

  • Eat food rich in antioxidants such as berries, spinach, kidney beans, dark chocolate, etc.

  • Foods containing flavonoids help in reducing inflammation. These include soy, berries, broccoli, grapes and green tea.

  • Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.

Habit Forming

No

Therapeutic Class

ANTIRHEUMATICS

LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's Substitute

Substitutes safety advice
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Alcohol

Unsafe

You are recommended to avoid alcohol consumption while taking LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's. Alcohol intake, along with LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's, may cause liver disease.

bannner image

Pregnancy

Unsafe

It is not recommended to take LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's while you are pregnant. LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's may cause serious birth defects.

bannner image

Breast Feeding

Unsafe

It is not recommended to take LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's while you are breastfeeding. LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's passes into breast milk.

bannner image

Driving

Caution

LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's may cause dizziness and tiredness; do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel dizzy.

bannner image

Liver

Caution

Please consult your doctor if you have liver impairment before taking LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's.

bannner image

Kidney

Caution

Please consult your doctor if you have kidney impairment before taking LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's.

bannner image

Children

Unsafe

LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's is not approved for children under the age of 18 years.

FAQs

LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's is used to relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.

LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) which stops DNA (genetic material) of the provoked immune system cells required for its survival. Thereby, helps in treating inflammation, redness, and swelling at the damaged site (especially joint).

LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's may cause diarrhoea. Drink plenty of fluids and eat non-spicy food if you experience diarrhoea. If you find blood in stools (tarry stools) or if you experience severe diarrhoea consult your doctor. Do not take anti-diarrheal medicine on your own.

It might take 4-6 weeks before you notice any benefit. In some cases, it might also take 6 months for you to feel the full effect of LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's. Take LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's for as long as your doctor has prescribed to treat your condition effectually.

Inform your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, weak immune system and serious infections like pneumonia, or tuberculosis (TB).

The best time to take leflunomide is usually in the morning, with food, to help minimize stomach upset. However, following your doctor's specific instructions for taking leflunomide is essential, as the optimal timing may vary depending on your needs and health status.

LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's is not a steroid. It contains leflunomide, which is an immunomodulatory medication used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Leflunomide works by reducing inflammation and slowing the progression of the disease.

LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's may cause weight loss as a side effect. This weight loss is usually insignificant and may be due to a loss of appetite. If you experience significant weight loss, it is essential to consult your doctor.

Patients taking leflunomide should notify their doctor if they experience any unusual symptoms, side effects, or concerns. They should also keep their doctor informed about any changes in their health or medications.

LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's takes a long time to be eliminated from your body. It is generally recommended to wait at least 2 years after stopping LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's before planning a pregnancy. It is essential to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss the best plan for pregnancy after stopping LEF 20 mg Tablet 10's.

While taking leflunomide, it's reassuring to know that the risk of cancer is extremely low. Although there's a slight increase in the risk of certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma, this is very rare. Your healthcare provider will closely monitor you and address any concerns. Regular check-ups make you feel confident and safe while managing your condition with leflunomide.

Country of origin

India

Manufacturer/Marketer address

2/971/A6(A), First Floor Suraksha Arcade, P.M Kutty Road Kozhikode Kozhikode KL 673006
Other Info - LEF0034

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Author Details

Santoshini Reddy GDoctor badge

Written By

Santoshini Reddy G

M Pharmacy

Dr Aneela SiddabathuniDoctor badge

Reviewed By

Dr Aneela Siddabathuni

MPharma., PhD

Last Updated

Jul 18, 2025 | 6:35 AM IST

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Reference

  1. https://mri.cts-mrp.eu/human/downloads/NL_H_4276_003_FinalPL.pdf
  2. https://www.drugs.com/uk/leflunomide-10-mg-tablets-leaflet.html
  3. https://www.drugs.com/cdi/leflunomide.html
  4. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/020905s022lbl.pdf
  5. https://www.gwh.nhs.uk/media/190756/leflunomide2.pdf

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