leflunomide, a pyrimidine synthesis inhibitor with antiinflammatory effects. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Pregnancy, lactation, hepatic disease, jaundice, positive hepatitis B and C, severe immunosuppression, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Adverse effects include chest pain, angina pectoris, migraine, bronchitis, cough, respiratory infection, pneumonia, and sinusitis. Common side effects include nausea, anorexia, vomiting, constipation, flatulence, dizziness, insomnia, depression, paresthesia, palpitations, hypertension, rash, pruritus, pharyngitis, and rhinitis.
