Leflunomide 20mg Tablets (Manufacturer may vary)

Immune Support Treatment for Dogs and Cats

Product Description

Leflunomide 20mg is a medicine that lowers immune system activity and is used to treat autoimmune conditions in dogs and cats by controlling unusual immune responses. It is often given along with prednisone to better manage symptoms and may help reduce the need for higher steroid doses. This medication is taken by mouth, usually once a day, and can take a few weeks to show its full effect, so regular use and proper monitoring are important for the best results.

Benefits

• Immune System Support: Helps control conditions where the immune system attacks the body by calming its overactive response in pets.
• Steroid-Sparing Support: Often given along with prednisone to improve results and may help lower the amount of steroids needed.
• Easy Dosing Routine: Usually given once a day by mouth, making it simple for pet owners to stick to the treatment plan.
• Flexible Usage: Can be given with or without food, though giving it with food may help if your pet feels nauseous.
• Long-Lasting Action: Works over a longer period, with effects that can continue for weeks even after giving the dose.

Ingredients

Active Ingredient

Leflunomide

How to Use

Dosage & Administration Instructions

• Daily Single Dose: Usually given once a day, as advised by your veterinarian based on your pet’s condition.
• With or Without Food: Can be given with or without food, though food may help reduce nausea in sensitive pets.
• Consistent Treatment Duration: Continue administering for the full prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve before completion of treatment.
• Prescription Required: This medication should only be used under veterinary supervision with a valid prescription and monitoring plan.

Disclaimer: This dosage information is provided by the manufacturer. Always consult your veterinarian before administering or adjusting any supplement for your pet.

Additional Information

Precautions

• Not Safe During Pregnancy: Should not be used in pregnant or nursing pets due to possible risks to unborn or newborn animals.
• Liver Health Warning: Avoid giving it to pets with liver problems, as it may make liver conditions worse.
• Careful Handling Needed: Always wear gloves when handling this medication, and avoid contact if you are pregnant or planning to conceive.
• Use With Extra Care: Give cautiously to pets with kidney issues or weak immune systems to reduce the chance of complications.
• Check for Drug Interactions: Let your veterinarian know about any other medicines, supplements, or vaccines your pet is receiving to prevent harmful interactions.
• Proposition 65 Notice: This product may expose you to chemicals that are known in California to cause cancer or harm reproduction.

Possible Side Effects

• Stomach Issues: May lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or a drop in appetite, especially if given on an empty stomach.
• Low Energy: Pets might seem tired or less active while on this medication.
• Blood Count Changes: Can lower red or white blood cells or platelets, so regular lab tests are needed to keep track.
• Liver Level Changes: May increase liver enzyme or cholesterol levels, and your veterinarian might adjust the dose if needed.
• Severe Side Effects: In uncommon cases, it may lead to seizures, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or allergic reactions that require urgent veterinary care.

Storage Information

• Room Temperature Storage: Store between 15°C and 30°C to maintain medication stability and effectiveness.
• Protect From Light: Keep medication protected from light to prevent degradation and maintain potency over time.
• Store Safely: Keep it out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental swallowing or contact.

NOTE: For generic medications, the product image shown may not reflect the actual item received. Generic medications can vary in size, color, and shape between orders depending on the manufacturer. Additionally, your medication may arrive packaged in a HardyPaw Pharmacy vial.

Shipping & Return

We offer ground, express, priority, and international delivery; see our shipping policy for details.

For return instructions or product concerns, please refer to our detailed refund policy. 

Prescription items are NON-RETURNABLE and NON-REFUNDABLE. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is leflunomide used for in pets?

Ans: Leflunomide is used to treat autoimmune conditions in dogs and cats by suppressing abnormal immune responses. It is often prescribed alongside prednisone to improve symptom control and reduce steroid dosage requirements, helping manage immune-mediated diseases more effectively under veterinary supervision.

Q2: How long does leflunomide take to work in pets?

Ans: Leflunomide may begin working within one to two days at a cellular level, but visible improvement in symptoms can take several weeks. In many cases, veterinarians recommend allowing up to one month to properly assess how effective the medication is for a pet.

Q3: How should leflunomide be given to pets?

Ans: Leflunomide is typically given once daily by mouth. It can be administered with or without food, though giving it with food may help reduce nausea. Always follow your veterinarian’s dosing instructions for safe and effective treatment.

Q4: What should I do if my pet misses a dose of leflunomide?

Ans: If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next one. If it is, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time to make up for the missed one.

Q5: What monitoring is required while my pet takes leflunomide?

Ans: Pets on leflunomide require regular veterinary monitoring, including baseline blood work before starting treatment and follow-up tests. Monthly check-ups may be recommended initially, with liver enzyme testing every three months to ensure safety and adjust dosing if needed.

Clinical Research:

"Efficacy of leflunomide for treatment of immune-mediated polyarthritis in dogs: 14 cases (2006–2008)"
This study assessed leflunomide's effectiveness in treating dogs with immune-mediated polyarthritis, providing insights into appropriate dosing and observed adverse effects. AVMA Journals

"Leflunomide with prednisone or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug therapy is safe and tolerated for long-term treatment of immune-mediated polyarthritis in 27 dogs"
This research evaluated the long-term safety and tolerance of leflunomide combined with either prednisone or NSAIDs in dogs, highlighting its role in managing immune-mediated polyarthritis.  AVMA Journals