LIDOVA 25 mg capsules (Hard Gelatin)

What is LIDOVA 25 mg

LIDOVA 25 mg is an oral immunomodulatory medication that contains Leflunomide, primarily used in the management of autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). It belongs to the class of Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) and works by modulating the immune response that causes joint inflammation and damage. The 25 mg strength is typically used as a maintenance or escalated dose in adults who have tolerated the initial treatment phase well.

• Generic Name: Leflunomide
• Brand Name: LIDOVA
• Form: Hard gelatin capsules
• Strength: 25 mg per capsule
• Pharmacologic Class: DMARD (Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drug)
• Indications: Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis

How to use LIDOVA 25 mg

Take LIDOVA 25 mg exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken once daily for long-term management of autoimmune conditions.

• Route: Oral
• Administration: Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water
• With or Without Food: Can be taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort
• Regular Monitoring: Blood tests are essential to monitor liver enzymes and blood counts during treatment
• Missed Dose: Skip the missed dose if it’s almost time for the next one; do not double the dose

Do not stop taking LIDOVA unless advised by your physician, as abrupt withdrawal may lead to flare-up of disease symptoms.

Mode of Action LIDOVA 25 mg

Leflunomide, the active component of LIDOVA 25 mg, inhibits the enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), which is required for pyrimidine synthesis in rapidly dividing immune cells. This leads to decreased activation and proliferation of T and B lymphocytes, key mediators of the autoimmune response in RA and PsA.

• Target: DHODH (Dihydroorotate dehydrogenase)
• Primary Effect: Suppresses autoimmune inflammation
• Secondary Benefits: Slows disease progression and reduces joint damage
• Onset of Action: Clinical improvement typically seen after 4–6 weeks

LIDOVA 25 mg Interactions LIDOVA 25 mg

LIDOVA 25 mg may interact with several medications, especially those affecting the liver, immune system, or blood clotting pathways.

• Methotrexate: Increased risk of liver toxicity—requires frequent liver function monitoring
• NSAIDs: Generally safe, but monitor for additive gastrointestinal effects
• Warfarin: May increase anticoagulant effects; monitor INR regularly
• Rifampin: May increase plasma concentration of Leflunomide’s active metabolite
• Live Vaccines: Avoid during treatment due to immune suppression

Always inform your healthcare provider of all prescription and nonprescription drugs, including supplements.

Dosage of LIDOVA 25 mg

Dosage is determined by the healthcare provider based on the severity of the disease, tolerance, and treatment goals.

• Standard Maintenance Dose: 20–25 mg once daily
• Initiation: Some protocols include a loading dose (e.g., 100 mg/day for 3 days), but this may be skipped to reduce gastrointestinal side effects
• Dose Adjustments: May be needed in patients with liver enzyme elevations or intolerance
• Special Populations: Lower doses may be needed in elderly patients or those with borderline liver function

Always use under the supervision of a rheumatologist or qualified physician familiar with DMARD therapy.

Possible side effects of LIDOVA 25 mg

Side effects can range from mild and transient to severe and dose-limiting. Regular monitoring helps minimize risks.

• Common: Diarrhea, nausea, elevated liver enzymes, headache
• Moderate: Weight loss, mouth ulcers, allergic skin reactions
• Serious: Hepatotoxicity, bone marrow suppression, interstitial lung disease (rare)
• Long-Term Use: Increases risk of infections and peripheral neuropathy

Patients should report any signs of infection, shortness of breath, jaundice, or unusual fatigue to their physician promptly.

LIDOVA 25 mg Contraindications LIDOVA 25 mg

• Known hypersensitivity to Leflunomide or any capsule component
• Severe hepatic impairment
• Severe immunodeficiency (e.g., AIDS)
• Pregnancy – strictly contraindicated due to teratogenicity
• Moderate to severe bone marrow suppression

Women of childbearing age must use reliable contraception during and after therapy, and undergo a drug elimination procedure before planning pregnancy.

Storage of LIDOVA 25 mg

• Store below 25°C (77°F)
• Keep capsules in the original blister to protect from moisture
• Do not freeze or expose to heat
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Do not use capsules after the expiration date. Dispose of expired medication through a pharmacy or local drug take-back program.