LIDOVA 5 mg capsules (Hard Gelatin)

What is LIDOVA 5 mg

LIDOVA 5 mg is a prescription medication containing Leflunomide, an immunomodulatory agent primarily used to manage autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). It belongs to the class of drugs known as Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs), which help reduce inflammation, alleviate joint pain, and prevent structural damage in chronic inflammatory diseases.

The 5 mg dose is often used for dose titration, in patients who are sensitive to higher doses, or in special populations such as the elderly or those with liver function concerns. It can also be used in tapering regimens or as part of a combination therapy plan.

• Active Ingredient: Leflunomide
• Pharmacological Class: DMARD (Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drug)
• Mechanism: Immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory
• Common Use: Long-term treatment of RA and PsA

How to use LIDOVA 5 mg

Take LIDOVA 5 mg exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The dose and duration will depend on your medical condition and response to therapy.

• Administration Route: Oral – swallow the capsule whole
• Timing: Preferably at the same time daily
• With Food: Can be taken with or without meals
• Missed Dose: Take as soon as you remember unless it's near the next dose; never double up
• Monitoring: Regular blood tests to check liver function and blood cell counts

Do not stop treatment abruptly without consulting your physician, especially if you are on long-term therapy.

Mode of Action LIDOVA 5 mg

Leflunomide works by inhibiting the enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), a key enzyme involved in the synthesis of pyrimidines. Pyrimidines are necessary for DNA and RNA production, especially in rapidly dividing cells like activated T-lymphocytes. By blocking DHODH, LIDOVA suppresses the immune system’s abnormal response in autoimmune diseases, thereby reducing inflammation and joint damage.

• Target: DHODH enzyme in immune cells
• Primary Action: Suppresses T- and B-cell proliferation
• Clinical Effect: Reduces swelling, pain, and slows disease progression
• Onset: Noticeable improvement may take several weeks

LIDOVA 5 mg Interactions LIDOVA 5 mg

Leflunomide may interact with various other medications and increase the risk of side effects. Inform your healthcare provider about all the drugs you are taking, including herbal products and over-the-counter medications.

• Methotrexate: Additive immunosuppressive and hepatotoxic effects
• NSAIDs: Increased risk of gastrointestinal and liver side effects
• Warfarin: Potentiates anticoagulant effect – requires INR monitoring
• Live Vaccines: Should be avoided during treatment due to immune suppression
• Cholestyramine: Can be used to eliminate the drug more rapidly in cases of toxicity or pregnancy planning

Dosage of LIDOVA 5 mg

The 5 mg strength is typically used in specific clinical scenarios where lower dosing is indicated. It may be used alone or in combination with higher doses to create customized dosing regimens.

• Maintenance Dose: Sometimes used in patients who cannot tolerate higher doses (e.g., 10 or 20 mg)
• Titration: Used to start therapy gradually to minimize side effects
• Elderly or Hepatic Patients: May require reduced dose under strict medical supervision
• Flexible Dosing: Can be combined with other strengths to meet specific therapeutic targets

Your physician will determine the optimal dose based on response and tolerance.

Possible side effects of LIDOVA 5 mg

Although the 5 mg dose is lower, side effects can still occur. Most are mild and manageable, but serious effects require immediate medical attention.

• Common: Diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, headache
• Less Common: Rash, increased blood pressure, fatigue
• Serious: Liver enzyme elevation, bone marrow suppression, interstitial lung disease (rare)
• Infections: Risk increases due to immunosuppressive effect

Report any signs of infection, yellowing of the skin/eyes (jaundice), or unusual fatigue to your doctor.

LIDOVA 5 mg Contraindications LIDOVA 5 mg

• Known hypersensitivity to Leflunomide or its components
• Pregnancy or women planning pregnancy
• Severe liver dysfunction
• Severe immunodeficiency or untreated infection
• History of interstitial lung disease

Women of reproductive age must use effective contraception during treatment and undergo a washout procedure before conception.

Storage of LIDOVA 5 mg

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

Dispose of expired medication properly, following local pharmaceutical waste guidelines.