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Leflunomide 10 milligram (MG)

P. Verschueren · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Leflunomide inhibits dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, an enzyme required for pyrimidine synthesis, thereby suppressing T-cell and B-cell proliferation.

Leflunomide inhibits dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, an enzyme required for pyrimidine synthesis, thereby suppressing T-cell and B-cell proliferation. Used for Rheumatoid arthritis, Active psoriatic arthritis, Active ankylosing spondylitis.

At a glance

Generic nameLeflunomide 10 milligram (MG)
SponsorP. Verschueren
Drug classDHODH inhibitor; disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD)
TargetDihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaImmunology; Rheumatology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Leflunomide's active metabolite, teriflunomide, selectively inhibits the mitochondrial enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), which is essential for de novo pyrimidine nucleotide synthesis. This preferentially affects rapidly dividing lymphocytes, which depend heavily on this pathway, leading to reduced T-cell and B-cell proliferation and decreased production of inflammatory cytokines. The drug has both immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects.

Approved indications

Common side effects

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