Cara tablet 20mg

About Cara tablet 20mg

Cara tablet 20mg Uses

• Active rheumatoid arthritis in adults, alone or with methotrexate
• Active psoriatic arthritis
• Slowing joint damage and structural progression in inflammatory arthritis
• Reducing pain, stiffness and swelling in affected joints

What Experts Say

Leflunomide blocks an enzyme called dihydroorotate dehydrogenase inside fast dividing immune cells. This lowers pyrimidine production inside activated lymphocytes. The result is a calmer immune response and less inflammation in the joints affected by rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis.

Rheumatologists across Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad and Rawalpindi commonly prescribe Cara tablet 20mg for patients who cannot tolerate methotrexate or need an additional DMARD. Its once daily dosing suits patients managing long commutes to public hospitals for follow up visits. Many patients notice reduced joint stiffness within four to six weeks of consistent use.

Regular liver function tests and blood counts are essential during treatment, since the drug carries a risk of liver toxicity. Blood pressure should also be checked periodically. Doctors stress reliable contraception too, because leflunomide can cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy.

Cara tablet 20mg formula

• Leflunomide 20mg

Available forms

• Tablet

How to use Cara tablet 20mg?

• Doctors in Pakistan usually start treatment with a loading dose, then move to Cara tablet 20mg once daily for maintenance.
• The tablet works with or without food, though a fixed time each day helps with consistency.
• The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, since crushing or chewing is not recommended.
• Blood tests are needed before starting and periodically during treatment to check liver function and blood counts.
• Missed doses should not be doubled up. The next dose should be taken at the regular time.

Drug Interactions

• Methotrexate, since combined use raises the risk of liver toxicity
• Live vaccines, which should be avoided during treatment
• Rifampicin, which can raise leflunomide levels in the blood
• Warfarin and other blood thinners, due to a possible increase in bleeding risk
• Cholestyramine and activated charcoal, which lower leflunomide absorption

Risks and warnings

• Pregnancy is a strict contraindication, since leflunomide is linked to serious birth defects.
• Men and women planning a pregnancy need a washout procedure with cholestyramine before conception.
• Active or chronic liver disease increases the risk of drug related liver injury.
• Active infections, including tuberculosis, should be treated before starting this medicine.
• Low blood counts or bone marrow suppression require close monitoring during treatment.
• Elderly patients and those with kidney impairment may need dose adjustment under medical supervision.

Cara tablet 20mg Side Effects

• Diarrhea and stomach upset
• Nausea
• Hair thinning
• Headache
• Skin rash
• Raised liver enzymes
• Mild increase in blood pressure

Storage Conditions

• The tablets should be stored below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• The original blister pack should be used to store the tablets until each dose is taken.
• Children should not have access to this medicine.