Hyperpigmentation after using Leflunomide...

[marie66]

Hi guys, anyone developed hyperpigmentation skin discolouration?

I was on Leflunomide for 7 weeks 5 days after I started it a wee patch rash started and slowly almoxt fullt encompassed my neck and face. It's not as bad as it sounds, well its not great either my face mostly just looks kinds tanned but my neck is worst!

7 weeks after drug withdrawal it hasn't gone away, phoned rheumt nurse who's said try GP not sure how he's gonna help so any advice?

[marie66]

Should I be asking for skin referral or is it just RAs next step for me. The gift that keeps giving! M x

[medway-lady]

I've been taking it for 3 years but never had this, best to ask GP.

[Sophie17]

Hi Marie66 I too take leflumide have been on for 9 months. I have this same problem all over my legs. The nurse has looked at them and my g p and all I get told its the steroids no one has said it's leflumide. Do you take steroids as well? Sophie17

[marie66]

dermatalk.com/blogs/skin-di... Leflunomide is listed as one of the drugs that causes skin pigmentation issues. M x

[marie66 in reply to marie66]

I see methotrexate is also listed andif steroids are in the frame too I've a triple whammy! In my case the issue showed up 5 days after I added Leflunomide. M x

[marie66]

Update, skin discolouration no better but I eventually saw a doctor now referred to Dermatologist marked drug reaction. .. I'll sure making my way around our NHS! M x

[Nana-8]

My RA Dr looked at the skin disorder I’ve got brewing and suggested I go to a dermatologist. Waiting for referral. Mainly my left side. Forehead,temples, side of neck like yours. It feels like suede rather than skin. It burns at times, itches, or feels like pricks. At times I don’t feel it but at night it really kicks up and itches. I decided to try some tube I got years ago called Nizoral/ketoconazole. It’s for a fungus. Lo and behold, it stung like crap but has softened the skin and relieved the itch. Then I read a lowered immune system can cause fungal infections.

[Nana-8 in reply to Nana-8]

Dermatologist said it must be a skin reaction to the Leflunomide. Gave me anti inflammatory creams and told me to use CeeVe moisturizer… we will see

[marie66]

it’s never easy is it. My discolouration never went away. I wear factor 50+ as it darkens in the sun. I hope you get it sorted out. 😊 M x

[Nana-8 in reply to marie66]

it is a rocky journey!