Leflunomide Alcohol Interaction
Leflunomide Alcohol
Leflunomide is the generic name for a drug used to control symptoms caused by rheumatoid arthritis such as inflammation, swelling, stiffness and joint pain. The drug functions by inhibiting the body from producing too many immune cells that which are responsible for the swelling and inflammation.
It is suggested that alcohol be consumed moderately or not at all when using this drug.
At this time the medical community defines moderate consumption of alcohol as no more than two drinks per day and no more than 14 drinks per week. Anything more than that is considered an unhealthy dependency on alcohol that may have adverse social, family and health consequences.
If a person drinks only once or twice a week but drinks on the same days each week and more than two drinks this is considered as an alcohol dependency.
If a person binge drinks at any time during the week this is also considered as alcoholism.
Some consider alcoholism as a disease while others consider it an addiction which is the result of personal choice and character fault. This school of thought blames the alcoholism on life style choices.
Personally I consider alcoholism a genetic tendency as I have seen families of alcoholics even when they live far apart. These unfortunate people are probably dependent on alcohol from the first drink.
When alcohol interacts with prescription over the counter drugs it usually results in negative health effects most especially liver damage as the main organ affected.
It is suggested that before taking this or any other drug you have a frank and honest discussion with your physician as to your drinking habits. This may be difficult as many alcoholics are in a state of denial as to their drinking habits.
I have also noticed that many alcoholics are not subject to the morning after illness that most of us suffer through when we drink too much. Severe alcoholics usually find if they feel “shakey” in the morning, a drink will make them feel more normal.
This drug should not be used if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant.
Do not use with other medicines unless advised by your physician that it is safe to do so. Other medical problems to be discussed before using this drug are blood or bone marrow problems, bone marrow dysplasia, immune system problem, severe or uncontrolled infection, liver disease, hepatitis B or C, lung disease, tuberculosis or weak immune system.
Side Effects
Less serious side effects are bloody or cloudy urine, chest congestion, cough, difficult burning painful urination, breathing difficulties, dizziness, fever, frequent urination, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, sneezing, sore throat or jaundice.If these occur call your physician for advice.
Serious side effects are burning feeling in the chest or stomach, burning or tingling sensation in fingers or toes, chest pain, diarrhea, fast heartbeat, indigestion, joint or muscle pain or stiffness, pounding heartbeat, severe stomach pain, shortness of breath, tiredness or weakness.If these occur get emergency medical help.
This site serves as an information source only and does not dispense medical advice or any other kind of advice. If you are seeking medical advice you are advised to consult your own physician.
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