Lemida Tablet 20 mg (Leflunomide)

Adult dose

1. Loading dose Considering that this medication has a long half-life and a recommended dosing interval of 24 hours, treatment is generally started with a loading dose to reach steady-state plasma concentrations more rapidly. The loading dose is 100 mg once daily for 3 days. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, omitting the loading dose may reduce the risk of adverse reactions (see section ‘5. General precautions 9)’). 2. Maintenance dose The maintenance dose for patients with rheumatoid arthritis is 20 mg per day. Some patients who received 25 mg per day experienced adverse reactions such as alopecia, weight loss, and increased liver enzyme levels. Therefore, the maintenance dose should not exceed 20 mg per day; in patients with poor clinical tolerability, the maintenance dose may be reduced to 10 mg per day. The maintenance dose for patients with psoriatic arthritis is 20 mg per day. Monitor liver enzyme levels; dose adjustment may be necessary (see Warnings—Hepatotoxicity). Because the half-life of the active metabolite of this medication is prolonged, it may take several weeks for metabolite levels to decrease. Therefore, monitor patients closely after reducing the dose.

This medication contains an active metabolite that remains in the body for a long time, and side effects may continue to be present even after the medication is stopped. In cases of serious side effects or if rapid removal of the drug from the body is necessary, the specific medication cholestyramine or activated charcoal may be administered to reduce the drug concentration. Caution should be exercised especially in patients with impaired liver function as it may affect liver function. It is important to conduct liver function tests before starting the medication, and monthly liver function tests during the initial treatment phase. If liver function levels exceed a certain threshold, the dosage should be reduced or the medication discontinued. The risk of hepatotoxicity may increase when combined with other drugs, particularly when used with methotrexate, so liver function should be monitored frequently. Patients with lung problems or a history of lung disease should check their lung condition before taking the drug and be cautious of lung symptoms during treatment. This drug may suppress immune function and pose a risk of serious infections, so consult medical personnel immediately if symptoms of infection appear. Serious allergic reactions or ulcers may occur on the skin, so if skin abnormalities arise, discontinue the medication and consult a doctor. The medication may affect wound healing, so if surgery is planned, consult with a physician to adjust the medication schedule. This medication can be harmful to the fetus, so women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not use it. Women planning to become pregnant should discontinue the medication and undergo a drug removal process, as taking it during pregnancy could pose serious risks to the fetus. Patients with lactose intolerance should not take this medication. Elderly patients over 65 may use it without special dosage adjustments, but safety and effectiveness have not been established for children, so it is not recommended. Overdose may result in diarrhea, abdominal pain, hematological abnormalities, etc., and cholestyramine or activated charcoal can be used to eliminate the drug in such cases. This drug may interact with other medications, so it is essential to inform medical personnel about any other medications being taken. The risk of side effects may increase, particularly when used with hepatotoxic drugs, immunosuppressants, or hematotoxic drugs. Regular blood tests and liver function tests are required while taking this medication, and any unusual symptoms should be reported to healthcare professionals immediately.

• Diarrhea
• elevation of liver enzymes (ALT, AST)
• hair loss
• rash
• weakness
• flu-like symptoms
• upper respiratory infection
• injury accident
• pain
• abdominal pain

This medication is sensitive to light and should be stored in a container that does not allow light in. Additionally, it is crucial to store it at a cool temperature below 25 degrees Celsius to maintain its effectiveness.

Appearance

Yellow or light yellow triangular film-coated tablet

Package unit

30 tablets/bottle