Leflunomide query?

[chrisb4]

Could not tolerate sulfasalazine, had awful rash with hydroxychloroquine, now going to start leflunomide. Just hoping for something positive about this as I'm really not looking forward to more horrible side effects. Next option would be methotrexate, but, having copd, I would need lung function tests to see if it's ok.

[medway-lady]

DO NOT READ THE PIL!!! its put my aggressive RA into remission and at first a few side effects then they went and life is normal now. Great medication with only in my view a postive side. It may not work for you of course but if you read the PIL then it probably will give you some effects that you won't like. The answer is to be positive and persevere for a while to allow it to work. Give it a chance really is my best advice if it helps call it by its American name Arava which sounds so much more user-friendly.

[Diddydriver]

Hi, I too have copd, I was given leflusomide but it didn't suit me as weight just fell off me which I couldn't cope with, I am only tiny anyway. I was taking it along side mtx and hydro so maybe the mix caused the weight loss. Like most people say give it a good go before you dismiss it as with all the other rd drugs they do take time. X

[walterine73]

Have been on Methtrexate for about 6 years and the only side affect was the skin darkening.I have heart ,copd.It has worked very well.All meds have side effects but MX has agreed with me.Now I have to go off of it because I have Prostrate Cancer.Don't know how my system will react to it now. I am hoping I will cope and will definitely go back on it. Good Luck.