Leflunomide: What It Is, How to Use It, and Buying Tips

If you’ve been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or another autoimmune condition, chances are your doctor mentioned leflunomide. It’s a pill that slows down the immune system so joints don’t get inflamed as much. Unlike some injections, leflunomide comes in a simple tablet you take once a day, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.

How to Take Leflunomide Correctly

The typical starting dose is 20 mg taken orally each evening. Some doctors begin with a loading dose—100 mg for three days—to reach therapeutic levels faster, then drop to the maintenance dose. Always swallow the tablet whole; crushing or chewing can change how your body absorbs it.

Take leflunomide with food if you notice stomach upset. If you miss a dose, just take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next one—don’t double up. Consistency matters because the drug has a long half‑life and builds up in your system over weeks.

Common Side Effects & When to Call Your Doctor

Most people feel fine, but leflunomide can cause mild issues like headache, nausea, or diarrhea. Watch for more serious signs: persistent fever, rash, unusual bruising, or liver trouble (yellow skin, dark urine). If any of these pop up, stop the medication and contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Because leflunomide can affect the liver, doctors usually order blood tests before you start and every few months afterward. Keep a log of any new symptoms; it helps your doctor decide if dose adjustments are needed.

Drug Interactions You Should Know

Leflunomide doesn’t play well with certain meds. Avoid combining it with other immunosuppressants unless your doctor says it’s safe, as this can increase infection risk. Blood thinners like warfarin may need tighter monitoring because leflunomide can affect clotting times.

Alcohol amplifies liver strain, so limit drinking while on the drug. If you’re pregnant or planning a pregnancy, talk to your doctor right away—leflunomide is teratogenic and must be stopped well before trying to conceive.

Buying Leflunomide Online: Safety First

When you need a refill, an online pharmacy can be convenient. Look for sites that require a prescription, display a valid pharmacy license, and have clear contact info. Reviews from other buyers give clues about reliability.

Avoid “too good to be true” prices; they often signal counterfeit pills. Use tools like the FDA’s Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS) seal or check with your local health authority. If a site offers a money‑back guarantee and secure payment, that’s a good sign you’re dealing with a legitimate source.

Before ordering, compare shipping times and return policies—some pharmacies let you return unused medication if there’s an issue. Keep a copy of the prescription handy; some countries require it for customs clearance.

Bottom Line: Use leflunomide Wisely

Leflunomide can be a game‑changer for arthritis, but it works best when you follow dosing instructions, stay on top of lab tests, and watch for side effects. Pairing the medication with a trustworthy online pharmacy saves time without compromising safety. Talk to your doctor about any concerns, and you’ll have a clearer path toward managing joint pain effectively.