Everything You Need to Know About Leflunomide

If you’ve been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), chances are your doctor mentioned leflunomide. It’s a pill that slows down the immune system so joints don’t get damaged as fast. In plain words, it helps keep swelling and pain under control.

How Leflunomide Works and When to Use It

Leflunomide blocks an enzyme called DHODH, which is needed for the production of certain immune cells. Fewer aggressive cells mean less joint inflammation. Doctors usually prescribe it when methotrexate isn’t enough or causes side effects.

The standard dose starts low—often 10 mg per day—for a week, then jumps to 20 mg daily. Some people stay on that dose for years if they tolerate it well. You’ll take the tablet with food and a full glass of water; missing a dose once in a while isn’t a disaster, but try not to skip regularly.

Common Side Effects and What to Watch For

Most users feel fine, but leflunomide can cause trouble. The most frequent complaints are stomach upset, diarrhea, and mild liver enzyme bumps. If you notice persistent nausea, yellow skin, or unusual fatigue, call your doctor right away.

Hair loss and rash happen for a small group of patients. Because the drug affects the liver, doctors will check blood work before starting treatment and every few months afterward. Pregnant women should avoid leflunomide completely—it can harm a developing baby even after stopping the pill, so a wash‑out period is required.

If you’re worried about side effects, talk to your pharmacist. Some people find taking the tablet with food or splitting the dose helps reduce stomach issues.

Saving Money on Leflunomide: Canadian Discounts Made Easy

Prescription costs add up fast, especially for chronic conditions like RA. One trick many patients use is ordering from reputable Canadian pharmacies. Prices there are often 30‑50 % lower than U.S. retail rates.

When you shop online, look for a pharmacy that requires a valid prescription, shows a physical address in Canada, and has a pharmacist available to answer questions. Sites with good reviews and clear privacy policies are safer bets.

Before you click “buy,” compare at least three pharmacies. Use the search term "leflunomide cheap" or "discount leflunomide Canada" to pull up options quickly. Add the drug name plus your dosage (e.g., leflunomide 20 mg) in the cart, then check shipping costs—many providers offer free worldwide shipping for orders over a certain amount.

Don’t forget to ask about bulk discounts. Ordering a three‑month supply can shave off another 10 % compared to buying month‑by‑month. If you have insurance, see whether the pharmacy accepts your plan; sometimes they can bill directly and you only pay the co‑pay.

Finally, keep a copy of every receipt and the pharmacy’s contact info. If anything looks off—like a sudden price jump or missing dosage information—reach out immediately. A reliable Canadian pharmacy will gladly verify the product and address concerns.

In short, leflunomide can be a solid part of RA management when you know how to use it safely and where to find affordable prices. Stay on top of your lab tests, report any odd symptoms, and shop smart for discounts. Your joints—and wallet—will thank you.