All You Need To Know About Teriflunomide: Dosage, Safety & Side Effects

Teriflunomide is a common treatment for relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS). It has been approved by the FDA since 2012 and is widely prescribed to MS patients as part of their treatment regimen. While Teriflunomide is becoming widely used, many medical professionals are unaware of its dosage, safety, and side effects. This article aims to provide an in-depth look at this medication so medical professionals can better understand its use and prescribe accordingly. 

What is Teriflunomide?

Teriflunomide (Aubagio) is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used to treat adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). It is taken by mouth as a pill. Teriflunomide reduces the number of MS flare-ups (relapses) and slows down the progression of disability. It is not a cure for MS.

Common side effects of teriflunomide include hair loss, nausea, diarrhea, and liver problems. Serious side effects include birth defects, low white blood cell counts, and an increased risk of infections. Teriflunomide is in the class of drugs called immunomodulators. It works by suppressing the immune system to decrease inflammation.

The usual starting dose of teriflunomide is 7 mg once daily for 30 days. The dose is then increased to 14 mg once daily. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time

Teriflunomide Dosage

The recommended dose of teriflunomide is 14 mg once daily. The starting dose is 7 mg once daily for the first 3 days. After that, the dose is increased to 14 mg once daily. If a patient misses a dose, they should take it as soon as possible unless it is almost time for their next dose, in which case they should skip the missed dose and continue with their regular schedule. It is important not to take more than one dose in a 24-hour period.

Teriflunomide can be taken with or without food. If a patient experiences gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea or diarrhea, taking teriflunomide with food may help lessen these effects.

Patients should have their blood pressure monitored regularly while taking teriflunomide. The drug can cause hypertension (high blood pressure), so patients who already have hypertension may need to have their condition closely monitored while taking this drug.

As with all medications, there is a risk of side effects with teriflunomide. The most common side effects are upper respiratory tract infections, diarrhea, and nausea. Other potential side effects include liver problems, hair loss, and skin rash. Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own with no treatment necessary.

Safety and Side Effects

When it comes to any medication, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits before starting treatment. The same is true for teriflunomide, which is used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). While teriflunomide has been shown to be effective in reducing MS symptoms and slowing disease progression, it also comes with a risk of serious side effects.
Before starting treatment with teriflunomide, patients should be made aware of the potential risks and side effects. The most common side effects of teriflunomide include nausea, diarrhea, hair loss, and elevated liver enzymes. Rare but serious side effects include Stevens-Johnson syndrome, hepatotoxicity, and pneumonitis.
Patients should also be made aware that teriflunomide can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter medicines.
Teriflunomide should not be used by pregnant women or women who are planning to become pregnant as it can cause birth defects. Women of childbearing age must use effective contraception while taking this medication and for at least 2 years after stopping treatment. Men treated with teriflunomide should use effective contraception during treatment and for 3 months after stopping treatment.

How to Take Teriflunomide

 Teriflunomide is usually taken once daily with or without food. If you are taking the capsules, be sure to swallow them whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the capsules. If you are having trouble swallowing capsules, you may open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on a small amount of soft food (such as applesauce). Swallow all of the mixture right away without chewing. Do not save any for later use.

If you are taking Teriflunomide for the first time, you will need to take two tablets (14 mg) once daily for three days in a row. On the fourth day, you will begin taking one tablet (7 mg) once daily. 

Conclusion

In summary, we have outlined all of the essential information that medical professionals need to know about teriflunomide. From its recommended dosage, safety and side effects to its potential interactions with other medications and treatments, this drug can be a powerful ally in managing and treating certain autoimmune disorders. However, it’s important to understand how it works and what risks are associated with using it before prescribing it to patients. We hope this article has enabled you to make informed decisions when considering whether or not teriflunomide is right for your patient's needs.

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