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Basic Chemical, Pharmacological, and Marketing Data
Leflunomide is a pyrimidine synthesis inhibitor belonging to the DMARD (disease-modifying antirheumatic drug) class of drugs, which are chemically and pharmacologically very heterogen. The chemical name for leflunomide is N-(4'-trifluoromethylphenyl)-5-methylisoxazole-4-carboxamide.
The substance is sold under the brand name Arava® by Aventis. It is available for oral administration as tablets containing 10, 20, or 100 mg of active drug. Arava® also contains some inactive ingredients, which could cause allergies or intolerances. Arava® was approved by FDA and in many other countries (e.g., Canada, Europe) in 1999.
Mechanism of Action: Arava® is an immunomodulatory drug inhibiting dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (an enzyme involved in de novo pyrimidine synthesis) (abbreviation DHODH). Genuine antiproliferative activity has been proven. Additionally, several experimental models (both in vivo and in vitro) have demonstrated an anti-inflammatory effect. This double action is supposed to slow progression of the disease and to cause remission/relief of symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis such as joint tenderness and decreased joint and general mobility in human patients.
More on [ Leflunomide ]
Arava - Official pharmaceutical website by Hoechst Marion Roussel.
Arava Consumer Information - FDA - Consumer FAQ in html format with a link to approved labeling in pdf format.
Meta Description: [ Leflunomide (marketed as Arava): Consumer Informatin Sheet ]
Leflunomide - Familydoctor.org - Information for patients in English and Spanish.
