lefluonamide and blood pressure

[gazman152]

after 5 years of Methotrexate / Pred I was basically out of pain from Pmr/ RA , except for stiff hands

My Rheumy changed me to Lefluonamide 20 mg in January this year. All my symptoms did disappear and for the first time in 5 years wasn’t exhausted all the time. Then found 10 mg controlled the disease which was very pleasing.

In May my blood pressure went thru the roof - from under 140/80 upto 210/100. A bit scary! Blood pressure medication has brought things under control luckily.

My question. - Has anyone else experienced real blood pressure issues whilst using Lefluonamide

[sylvi]

I didn't notice much difference in my bp. Trouble with our bodies is that things are different for each of us. What suits one won't suit another. Hugs .xx

[gazman152 in reply to sylvi]

Thanks for your comments and hugs Sylvi

[helixhelix]

It is quite a common side effect of Lef - apparently affects about 10% of people. If Lef works for you then do all you can to control your BP yourself as well as the BP drugs.Hope they are monitoring you carefully.

[Mmrr]

I take a half dose leflunomide alongside my JAK inhibitor, my borderline BP has been ok whilst on leflunomide, not much help to you I know.

[oldtimer2]

It seems to be quite a common problem with leflunomide. Because I have a blood pressure that's all over the place (both high and low) it was contra-indicated for me. For you it sounds as if it's a decision of whether to acept the addition of medication to lower your blood pressure and continue the leflunomide, or try another DMARD (disease modifying antiarthritic drug).

Have a look at the medication page on the NRAS website for ideas, so that you can discuss this with your rheumy team. It isn't a good idea to have to take medication to counter the effects of another medication (in my opinion), but sometimes it's the only choice....

nras.org.uk/information-sup...

[AgedCrone]

Raised BP is a well known side effect of Lfl..my BP med dose was increased when I was on it…but the other side effect was complete loss of appetite & I lost about 12kgs which I could ill afford to lose in a couple of months…so that was bye bye Lfl….my BP meds dose went back to pre Lfl days. …& I went on to another drug for the RA.