Leflunomide (DMARD) pharmacology – mechanism of action, adverse effects and cholestyramine

Leflunomide is an immunosuppressant used to treat RA and psoriatic arthritis and Multiple sclerosis. Leflunomide is a prodrug that is rapidly and almost completely metabolized following oral administration to its pharmacologically active metabolite, A77 1726 or teriflunomide. The mechanism of action of leflunomide has not been fully determined, but appears to primarily Inhibit the mitochondrial enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase.