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[Leflunomide--a new disease modifying anti-rheumatic agent].
E Rødevand1, T K Kvien, V Johnsen
1Revmatologisk avdeling Regionsykehuset i Trondheim 7006 Trondheim. erodevan@online.no
Summary
Leflunomide is an effective disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) for rheumatoid arthritis, comparable to other treatments. Further research will clarify its role in managing rheumatic and immunological diseases.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Leflunomide is a novel disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD).
- Developed for rheumatoid arthritis, its immunomodulatory effects suggest potential for other rheumatic and immunological diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current clinical documentation of leflunomide.
- To present evidence on leflunomide's efficacy and safety in treating rheumatoid arthritis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical documentation.
- Analysis of three large, prospective, randomized trials comparing leflunomide with placebo, sulphasalazine, or methotrexate.
Main Results:
- Leflunomide demonstrated superior efficacy compared to placebo.
- Efficacy was comparable to sulphasalazine and methotrexate.
- Adverse event frequency was similar to comparator drugs.
Conclusions:
- Leflunomide is a safe and effective antirheumatic drug.
- Additional clinical trials and real-world data are necessary to fully establish its role as a disease-modifying agent.